Quantum of Trust: Overview of Blockchain Technology for Product Authentication in Food and Pharmaceutical Supply Chains

IF 15.1 1区农林科学 Q1 FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Trends in Food Science & Technology Pub Date : 2025-02-03 DOI:10.1016/j.tifs.2025.104892

Elia Henrichs, Meta Leonie Boller, Johnathan Stolz, Christian Krupitzer

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Background: Food and pharmaceutical supply chains face similar issues, such as product counterfeits allowing low-quality products to enter the market and supply chain inefficiencies. Applying blockchain technology could increase transparency and efficiency in the supply chains. However, the technology is still relatively young and, thus, has barely been implemented.

Scope and Approach: This work aims to provide an overview of blockchain applications in food and pharmaceutical supply chains. Following the PRISMA method, the systematic literature review analyzes 78 applications in 74 publications. Deriving from the results, a general framework for blockchain applications in food and pharmaceutical supply chains is proposed, which should support practitioners in implementing blockchains and researchers in identifying research challenges.

Key Findings and Conclusions: The literature review reveals that permissioned and private blockchain networks are most commonly applied, using Ethereum and Hyperledger Fabric as leading platforms. Many applications stored data off the blockchain and implemented different techniques to restrict access to confidential data. Smart contracts are crucial for improving supply chain management as they enable automatization. The general framework recommends a permissioned consortium network using the Hyperledger Fabric platform and Proof-of-Authority consensus protocol for supply chains. Challenges like regulations, standardization, and infrastructure must be solved to foster technology adoption in operations.

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来源期刊

Trends in Food Science & Technology 工程技术-食品科技

CiteScore

32.50

自引率

2.60%

发文量

322

审稿时长

37 days

期刊介绍： Trends in Food Science & Technology is a prestigious international journal that specializes in peer-reviewed articles covering the latest advancements in technology, food science, and human nutrition. It serves as a bridge between specialized primary journals and general trade magazines, providing readable and scientifically rigorous reviews and commentaries on current research developments and their potential applications in the food industry. Unlike traditional journals, Trends in Food Science & Technology does not publish original research papers. Instead, it focuses on critical and comprehensive reviews to offer valuable insights for professionals in the field. By bringing together cutting-edge research and industry applications, this journal plays a vital role in disseminating knowledge and facilitating advancements in the food science and technology sector.