Enhanced Food Quality by Digital Traceability in Food Processing Industry

This study explores the enhancement of quality traceability in the food processing industry through the integration of modern digital tools, specifically blockchain technology. By combining a thorough literature review with the analysis of real-case studies, the research investigates current digital trends and their practical applications in the food processing sector. The findings show that blockchain-based approaches significantly improve supply chain transparency and quality management. Despite the potential benefits, the study also identifies challenges in practical implementations, such as resistance to adoption and the need for substantial investment in digital infrastructure. The research highlights the limited cultural attitude within the industry towards the comprehensive adoption of these modern tools, with their usage mostly confined to isolated case studies rather than a structured, widespread experimental orientation. Practical implications include providing businesses with guidelines for implementing digital tools to enhance quality traceability and management. Social implications underscore the critical role of these tools in meeting societal demands for food safety and transparency, particularly regarding information on raw materials, processing, and preservation methods. Thus, this paper offers a comprehensive overview of the use of blockchain and other digital tools to improve quality traceability in the food processing industry, contributing valuable insights and guidelines for future implementations.