AFCERC - Department of Agricultural Economics

The Agribusiness, Food and Consumer Economics Research Center (AFCERC) partners with industry, government agencies and other organizations to provide timely, unique, and professional research on a wide variety of issues relating to agriculture, food, and the nation. For over 40 years, our goal has been to to provide you with high-quality, objective, and relevant research to support decision-making at all levels of the supply chain from producers to processors, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers.

An enhanced emphasis on consumer economics adds depth to our research on the behavioral and social aspects of health, nutrition, and food safety. Through our research endeavors, outreach programs, and industry collaboration, we have become a leading source of knowledge on how food reaches consumers efficiently and contributes to safe and healthy lives.

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AFCERC Experts

Research Outputs

Our Mission

Through our research, we enhance the flow and quality of information along the farm-to-consumer market channel to improve decision-making and enhance the competitive position of our clients in national and global markets. Specific areas of research emphasis include:

Agricultural input and commodity markets
Agricultural, food, and fiber marketing and distribution
Supply chain management and analysis
Strategic management and planning
Pricing strategies and the price discovery process
Generic and branded advertising and promotion programs
Concentration and industrialization in agribusiness, food, and fiber industries
Globalization, international trade, and trade policy
Mergers and acquisitions
Consumer economics and behavior
Health and nutrition economics
Food safety economics
Food and fiber sector implications of environmental and resource issues

Current Research

Dairy Management, Inc.

Project Title: Quantitative Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Promotion Activities by the National Dairy Promotion and Research Program and the National Fluid Milk Processor Promotion Program

Principal Investigators: Dr. Oral Capps, Jr., Dr. Gary W. Williams, Dr. Victoria S. Salin

USDA Food and Nutrition Service

Project Title: Food for Progress Monitoring and Evaluation Sustainability
Investigator: Dr. Victoria S. Salin

American Pecan Council

Principal Investigator: Dr. Oral Capps, Jr., Dr. Gary W. Williams

Global Cold Chain Alliance

Principal Investigator: Dr. Victoria Salin

Mexican Hass Avocado Import Association (MHAIA) and the Asociación de Productores y Empacadores Exportadores de Aguacate de México (APEAM)

Principal Investigators: Dr. Oral Capps, Jr. and Dr. Gary W. Williams

United Sorghum Board

Project Title: Producer Return on Investments in Sorghum Research, Promotion, and Information: An Updated Analysis

Principal Investigators: Dr. Oral Capps, Jr.

In the News

Avocado shortage spotlights need for bilateral supply chain

AFCERC experts discuss the recent ban on Mexican avocado importation into the U.S. In a recent report, we highlight the importance of a strong bilateral supply chain that promotes economic growth and prosperity for both countries.

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Food availability depends on agricultural imports and exports

Economic activity related to the importation and exportation of agricultural products benefits consumers and helps stimulate both the Texas and U.S. economy, according to AFCERC experts.