A new study, The Narratives of Transparency in Food Supply Chain Digitalisation: A Systematic Literature Review, by Esra Zorer, Marijn Janssen, Siu Lie Tan & Marcela Tuler de Oliveira offers a fresh perspective on how digital technologies are reshaping transparency in food supply chains (FSCs). As these supply chains grow increasingly global and complex, the demand for transparency has surged, making digitalisation a critical necessity for ensuring trust, food safety, and sustainability.
The research systematically analyzed 50 academic papers to explore how digital tools intersect with transparency in FSCs. It highlights key narratives surrounding information asymmetry, trust, transparency, food safety and quality, supply chain management, and sustainability. A central finding is that while digital technologies like blockchain, IoT, and data analytics can enhance transparency, their effectiveness depends heavily on implementation strategies and contextual factors.
This work underscores the multifaceted nature of digital transparency, emphasizing that it is not merely a technical challenge but also an organizational and social one. By addressing issues such as trust and accountability, the study provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the potential and limitations of digitalisation in FSCs.
The research invites food industry leaders, policymakers, and academics to consider not only the technological tools but also the systemic changes needed to foster transparency and resilience in FSCs. This timely discussion points toward a future where digital solutions bridge gaps in trust and information across global food networks.
You can find the full article here.
Zorer, E., Janssen, M., Tan, S. L., & Tuler de Oliveira, M. (2024). The Narratives of Transparency in Food Supply Chain Digitalisation: A Systematic Literature Review. Disruptive Innovation in a Digitally Connected Healthy World: 23rd IFIP WG 6.11 Conference on E-Business, E-Services and E-Society, I3E 2024, Heerlen, The Netherlands, September 11-13, 2024, Proceedings [p. 428-444]. https://doi.org/[DOI]
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