Benefits and challenges with blockchain technology in global food supply chains: views from the practice

Abstract

PurposeAlthough technologies such as blockchain (BCT) hold great potential to improve global food supply chains (GFSCs), our understanding of BCT use in GFSCs remains limited. The purpose of this study is to broaden BCT discussions by exploring its benefits and challenges across the entire GFSC.Design/methodology/approachQualitative interviews with 23 industry experts were used to identify and comprehend the nuanced issues with BCT application in GFSCs.FindingsThe study identifies 21 perceived benefits and challenges with BCT use in GFSCs, including the benefit of broader data incentives beyond BCT use and the challenge of reluctance to assume dominant roles among the GFSC actors.Originality/valueWhile prior studies mostly focused on BCT use for traceability and food safety in the GFSC midstream, this study extends the scope to include upstream and midstream actors. It highlights socio-economic benefits for traditionally disadvantaged farmers in the upstream and normative challenges to its adoption in the GFSC midstream and downstream. It also identifies three paradoxes emerging with BCT use in the GFSCs including the paradoxes of food technology, transparency and de-centralization.