Purpose: This study aims to develop a scenario-based multi-objective decision support framework for upgrading the value chain of perishable agricultural products. The proposed framework incorporates the initial post-harvest quality of products to enable appropriate allocation among different pathways, including fresh consumption, processing, and value recovery from low-quality products and waste through secondary product generation. This approach contributes to reducing product losses, improving waste management, enhancing the economic value of the value chain, and promoting resource sustainability.

Methodology: A multi-objective, multi-period, and scenario-based optimization model was developed for the agricultural value chain, incorporating production and demand uncertainties as well as transportation budget constraints. The model objectives include maximizing total profit while minimizing the water footprint and carbon emissions. The proposed model was solved using the ε-constraint method in GAMS, and its validity and robustness were evaluated through sensitivity analysis.

Findings: The results obtained from the case study of the tomato product value chain in Mazandaran Province, based on market data and expert judgments, demonstrated that the proposed model is capable of achieving a balance between economic and environmental objectives under various uncertainty conditions. The baseline scenario results confirmed the profitability of the value chain and the dominance of revenues over costs. Sensitivity analysis revealed that the prices of fresh and processed products have the greatest impact on economic performance, while processing capacity is not the primary limiting factor of the system. Furthermore, the investigation of the processing conversion parameter indicated that increasing yield can improve economic performance only when sufficient demand exists for processed products.

Originality/Value: The main contribution of this study lies in developing a Scenario-based multi-objective decision support framework that integrates quality-based product allocation, waste management and recovery, and sustainability objectives within a unified framework. This framework facilitates coordinated decision-making to reduce product losses, enhance value creation, and improve the overall sustainability of the agricultural value chain.