Industry 4.0 in olive farming and oil production: A comprehensive review of technologies and trends

Abstract

Olive farming and olive oil production is undergoing a significant transformation with the advent of Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) technologies, which are reshaping the agricultural and food processing industries by integrating automation and digitalization across the whole supply chain, from farm to fork. This manuscript explores the transformative impact of Industry 4.0 on the olive supply chain, focusing on its role in enhancing efficiency, quality, traceability, and sustainability in olive farming and oil production. A comprehensive review of current research and technological developments is conducted, examining key technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, smart sensors, the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, digital twins, and robotics. Their applications in farming, manufacturing, processing, and supply chain management are analyzed, revealing how Industry 4.0 optimizes every stage of the olive supply chain through improved automation, quality control, and environmental performance. The reviewed literature demonstrates that IoT-enabled monitoring systems, remote sensing technologies, AI-driven decision-support tools, and robotics significantly improve resource-use efficiency, crop monitoring, harvesting operations, and production management. Furthermore, blockchain and digital traceability platforms enhance transparency, product authentication, and consumer trust, while advanced data analytics support predictive maintenance, quality assurance, and process optimization. Collectively, these technologies contribute to reducing water, energy, and agrochemical inputs, thereby improving the environmental sustainability and resilience of olive production systems. Despite these benefits, challenges such as high implementation costs, technological complexity, and the need for specialized skills continue to limit widespread adoption. This study also discusses strategies to overcome these barriers, including policy support, financial incentives, and capacity-building programs. By addressing these issues and highlighting the potential of digital transformation, this work contributes to paving the way for a more innovative, sustainable, and resilient olive sector.