Herramientas digitales para la inocuidad y trazabilidad alimentaria en cadenas de suministro

The manuscript titled "Digital Tools for Food Safety and Traceability in Supply Chains" analyzes how digital technologies are revolutionizing the management of food safety and traceability in global food supply systems. In a scenario where the demand for transparency, sustainability, and food quality is increasing, the study focuses on the application of digital tools such as blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), big data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) to ensure food safety and efficiency in consumption chains. The methodology adopted in this study is mixed, incorporat-ing quantitative analyses through surveys and simulations, along with qualitative techniques based on expert interviews and case study analyses in food supply chains across Latin America, Asia, and Europe. An evaluation was conducted on 15 prominent entities in the food sector that have imple-mented cutting-edge digital technologies to enhance their traceability and hygiene processes. Find-ings suggest that implementing digital tools facilitates a 40% improvement in the early identification of risks associated with food safety, such as microbiological contamination and the detection of adulterated products. Additionally, a 30% reduction in response times to health alerts was recorded, mitigating economic losses and strengthening consumer trust. Blockchain technology emerged as an essential tool for documenting immutable and transparent real-time transactions, while IoT enabled constant monitoring of storage and transportation conditions, optimizing cold chain management. From a qualitative perspective, experts emphasized that these tools promote cooperation among supply chain participants, enhance process visibility, and strengthen compliance with international regulations. However, challenges were identified, including high initial investments, technological training, and digital inequalities in developing nations. In summary, digital tools constitute a trans-formative solution to optimize food safety and traceability in supply chains. However, their effec-tive implementation requires inclusive public policies, economic incentives, and educational pro-grams that promote their sustainable and equitable adoption on a global scale.