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

Nugun P. Jellason, Ambisisi Ambituuni, Douglas A. Adu, Joy A. Jellason, Muhammad Imran Qureshi, Abisola Olarinde, Louise Manning

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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Abstract

Purpose
We 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/approach
As 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.

Findings
The 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/implications
Only 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/value
The 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.
Original languageEnglish
JournalBritish Food Journal
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Feb 2024

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