Leveraging blockchain to tackle food fraud: Innovations and obstacles

Blockchain is a virtual, distributed ledger that operates across multiple peer-to-peer computing devices without the need for a centralized authority. It utilizes unique software systems to manage transaction data file (block), facilitating the transmission, processing, storing, and display of data. As a solution to combat food fraud and enhance food safety, blockchain technology is gaining traction in the global food supply chain. It provides an immutable ledger system and transparent record-keeping, which offers unmatched traceability and accountability, enabling stakeholders to track food products from farm to fork. Despite its potential, the adoption of blockchain in the food industry faces challenges such as scalability, interoperability, and data accuracy, which need to be overcome to fully utilize its capabilities. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how blockchain technology address food fraud and improves food safety. By employing a review methodology, we analyze existing literature and case studies to examine blockchain's role in enhancing transparency, traceability, and sustainability in the food supply chain. This study identifies research gaps and discusses theoretical implications, practical applications, and potential future directions for blockchain technology within the context of food safety. Our findings highlight the transformative potential of blockchain to revolutionize the food industry by providing unparalleled traceability and accountability. We also emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts among stakeholders and the integration of innovative approaches such as decentralized data adjustment and the inclusion of genomic information on blockchain platforms. Theoretically, further research is needed to explore the synergy blockchain and emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence. Practically, our study underscores the critical need for blockchain adoption to safeguard the integrity of the food supply chain and protect consumer health. Through collective action and technological innovation, stakeholders can ensure that every food product is traceable, safe, and trustworthy, thereby enhancing the sustainability and resilience of the food industry.