Technological innovation for religious compliance: a framework for AI and blockchain implementation in halal food supply chains

Purpose The purpose of this study is to address critical challenges in halal food supply chain management by systematically examining the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technologies to enhance traceability, integrity and certification processes. Despite increasing global demand for halal products, traditional certification methods face significant limitations including fraud, mislabeling and inefficiencies, particularly affecting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that dominate the halal industry. Design/methodology/approach Following preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines, the authors conducted a comprehensive search across major academic databases, analyzing 52 peer-reviewed publications (2010–2024) using advanced structural topic modeling combined with bibliometric analysis. This pioneering methodological approach revealed temporal evolution patterns and latent thematic structures invisible to conventional narrative reviews, validated through seven independent empirical studies across Malaysia and Indonesia involving 285 respondents. Findings The analysis identified three predominant research streams: halal integrity and traceability (43%), blockchain technology challenges (37%) and technology management systems (21%). Critical synthesis exposed significant methodological inconsistencies, including selection bias in case studies and contradictory findings between qualitative optimism and quantitative reality showing 73% SME failure rates. Empirical validation demonstrated statistically significant relationships between technology adoption factors and halal value chain performance (ß = 0.67, p < 0.001), with environmental factors explaining 43% of adoption variance and quantifiable outcomes including 35% certification processing improvements, 67% traceability accuracy gains and 90% sustainability enhancements for MSMEs. Practical implications This research contributes the first empirically validated framework extending the technology-organization-environment (TOE) model for religious-based supply chains, reconceptualizing blockchain and AI as complementary technologies while developing technology-mediated trust mechanisms in religious contexts. The framework provides actionable implementation strategies including revenue-based technology selection criteria and risk prioritization matrices, establishing methodological standards for future faith-based supply chain research while addressing critical theory−practice gaps in halal technology adoption. Originality/value This review proposes a novel integrated framework that reinterprets the TOE model within the context of religious-based supply chains. It positions AI and blockchain as synergistic technologies, demonstrating how their convergence can revolutionize traditional halal certification practices by introducing trust-enhancing mechanisms and operational transparency.