Resilience of food supply systems to sudden shocks: A global review and narrative synthesis

Abstract

Global food supply systems (FSS) are increasingly tested by sudden shocks such as pandemics, geopolitical conflicts, and extreme weather events, that demand adaptive and transformative responses. This systematic review analyses 26 empirical studies published between 2016 and 2023, each examining an abrupt disruption in FSS. Of these, 22 focus on exposure to COVID-19 and four on natural disasters. Findings reveal that the most resilient food supply systems are those that combine strong operational, relational, and structural attributes with well-developed capacities at each shock phase (pre-, during-, and post-). These elements, taken together, not only enable effective recovery (returning to near-normal function) but also foster adaptation (dynamic adjustments to new conditions) and transformational shifts (permanent, beneficial reconfigurations) whenever disruptive events strike. However, many studies indicate that the capacity to “bounce forward” remains limited: short-term coping actions are often not converted into long-term structural reforms. This gap is particularly noticeable in settings with weak policy frameworks or resource constraints, undermining broader resilience gains. Although FSS often exhibit significant adaptability during disruptions, deeper transformation requires sustained efforts and alignment among governmental, private-sector, and community actors. The integrated framework of resilience proposed in this review clarifies how attributes underpin capacities that, when activated through concrete actions, shape resilience outcomes. By emphasising both short-term coping and long-term systemic change, stakeholders can strengthen future resilience strategies across diverse FSS contexts. Enhanced conceptual clarity, multi-scalar approaches, and expanded empirical evidence are crucial for guiding policy and practice, ultimately enabling FSS to withstand and learn from sudden shocks.