The use of Internet of Things (IoT) to improve transparency in agri-food supply chains

Abstract

Global food production needs to increase by approximately 70% by 2050 to ensure food security and feed the global population which is expected to reach 9.6 billion by 2050. To achieve these objectives in a sustainable manner, there is a need for modernisation and intensification of agricultural practices. There is also an increasing demand for proving sustainability within supply chains with research showing a direct correlation between transparency and consumer trust in agri-food products. This chapter starts out by detailing the impact and need for a globalised food system. It then progresses to discuss existing applications of Internet of Things (IoT) systems and the potential of future IoT systems in helping achieve these targets. The chapter also briefly touches upon the potential for combining Blockchain Technology and IoT systems in helping improve transparency and accountability within agri-food supply chains.