Synergizing blockchain and internet of things for enhancing efficiency and waste reduction in sustainable food management

Background: Reducing food waste in the food supply chain is paramount in our quest for sustainability. With growing concerns over environmental degradation, resource scarcity, and food insecurity, addressing this challenge has become a global imperative. To effectively tackle it, the use of blockchain along with the Internet of Things (BlockIoT) has emerged as a promising approach. By using decentralized and reliable systems built on blockchain technology, it is possible to devise a solution for better managing the agricultural supply chain. Scope and approach: The review article explores the potential of BlockIoT in tackling challenges within the food chain, such as traceability and waste reduction. This paper analyzes the benefits and limitations of blockchain solutions for sustainable food management, focusing on traceability and supply chain optimization. It also examines the technical and adoption challenges hindering blockchain implementation in the food industry. Key findings and conclusions: BlockIoT has the potential to make significant contributions to food supply chains, addressing all three pillars of sustainable development. Specifically, it can positively impact the social pillar by facilitating transparency and traceability, thus mitigating food fraud and ensuring food safety. Concerning the environmental pillar, BlockIoT has the potential to significantly reduce food waste and minimize the environmental footprint. Furthermore, BlockIoT has the potential to contribute to the economic pillar by lowering costs. However, achieving widespread blockchain implementation requires the participation of all stakeholders, which may be hindered by both technical and adoption challenges. These challenges encompass not only the technical aspects of implementing blockchain technology but also the broader issue of adoption throughout various industries and sectors. Further research focusing on empirical evidence and real-world implementation is needed to enhance understanding and enable the sustainable development of agriculture and smart agri-supply chain management.