Food Availability Management of a Vegetarian Group According to the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy During the COVID-19 Crisis: The Case of the Phu Pha Fah Nam Vegetarian Dhamma Way Community, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

This research article aimed to study obstacle factors and to investigate the management of food availability for a vegetarian group based on the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) during the COVID-19 crisis (2020-2022).  The study employed a mixed-methods approach, in-depth interviews, group discussions, and questionnaires to select a purposive sample of 70 individuals from both within and outside the community.

The findings revealed that the majority of the community members in Phu Pha Fah Nam were women who had migrated from other areas, resulting in a lack of familiarity with the local environment and agricultural practices. The main factors affecting the community's food availability included: 1) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, 2) the demographic characteristic of being predominantly female, and 3) the highland area's context. Food supply availability management involved:  1) producing food within the community and using natural ingredients, and 2) managing food from external sources and networks. Food demand availability management involved: 1) controlling and reducing consumption based on psychological needs (reducing desires), and 2) consuming only what was necessary. Statistical analysis indicated no significant difference (P>0.05) in supply and demand food availability management between internal and external communities, with a supply-demand ratio index of 1.02. Experts assessed the community's food availability management model as highly appropriate and aligned with the SEP principles. The internal and external community members rated the appropriateness of the management model as the highest and high levels, respectively. These results demonstrate that the appropriate food availability management of the community involves balancing production and consumption through self-reliance and networking principles, and it requires managing demand by reducing unnecessary consumption according to the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy.