The potential for blockchain to improve small-scale agri-food business’ supply chain resilience: a systematic review

Abstract

PurposeWe conducted a systematic review to explore the potential for the application of blockchain technologies for supply chain resilience in a small-scale agri-food business context.Design/methodology/approachAs part of the research methodology, scientific databases such as Web of Science, Google Scholar and Scopus were used to find relevant articles for this review.FindingsThe systematic review of articles (n = 57) found that the use of blockchain technology in the small-scale agri-food business sector can reduce the risk of food fraud by assuring the provenance of food products.Research limitations/implicationsOnly a few papers were directly from a small-scale agribusiness context. Key challenges that limit the implementation of blockchain and other distributed ledger technologies include concerns over the disclosure of proprietary information and trade secrets, incomplete or inaccurate information, economic and technical difficulties, low levels of trust in the technology, risk of human error and poor governance of process-related issues.Originality/valueThe application of blockchain technology ensures that the risks and costs associated with non-compliance, product recalls and product loss are reduced. Improved communication and information sharing can increase resilience and better support provenance claims and traceability. Better customer relationships can be built, increasing supply chain efficiency and resilience.

Key antecedents and consequences of blockchain technology adoption in the wine industry: a multiple case study analysis

“…For instance, implementing BCT as Traceability and Transparency Systems (TTSs) in the meat supply chain offers a technological solution to traceability challenges, replacing traditional TTSs, like certification labels (Sander et al ., 2018). Additionally, leveraging BCT enables numerous marginalized small-scale agri-food businesses to overcome barriers to international markets, empowering them to directly engage with buyers, increase earnings and enhance their bargaining position (Jellason et al ., 2024). BCT is revolutionizing supply chain management in the agri-food sector by addressing traditional challenges such as limited information sharing and transparency.…”