Animal‑sourced foods remained largely market‑sourced due to limited AC production capacity. Economically, only 9 percent of AC members participated, indicating unfair distribution of profits among AC members, while school meal contracts contributed up to 40 percent of profits for some cooperatives. Profit distribution was inequitable, with 50–70 percent retained by contract managers and 30–50 percent shared among members.
ACs demonstrated cost efficiency for vegetables but limited comparative advantage for animal proteins, due to their limited capacity to produce animal-source foods. Recommendations include revising procurement frameworks, piloting slaughterhouse partnerships, strengthening AC governance and securing sustainable financing. These measures align with Cambodia’s 2024-2035 School Feeding Policy and aim to enhance sustainability, equity and supply‑chain efficiency.