A fuzzy AHP approach to select suppliers in the Brazilian food supply chain

Abstract Paper aims This research proposes to apply the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process method for the supplier’s selection in a Brazilian food company. Originality It is the first time that food security has been incorporated as a first-level criterion in a process of selecting suppliers in a Brazilian food chain. Research method Practical application was carried out in a food company located in Brazil. Main findings Safety is the most important criteria when selecting a supplier, which ended up reflecting the placement of Supplier 3 as the best rated. Implications for theory and practice This research provides the first practical application of a hybrid mathematical technique in the process of selecting suppliers in a Brazilian food chain, evaluating the Food Security criterion on an equal basis with the others, and not as a sub criterion. The model can help managers better understand their suppliers' capabilities and performance.