THE PRACTICAL ADOPTION AND APPLICATION OF BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY WITHIN THE BEVERAGE INDUSTRY

Abstract The beverage industry is facing heightened scrutiny as the demand for transparency and accountability reaches new heights. In the age of information technology, companies must prioritize enhanced traceability to ensure product safety, comply with government regulations, maintain customer trust, and protect brand integrity. This thesis explores the potential of blockchain technology as a solution to these challenges, focusing on its ability to decentralize data, improve traceability, and expedite response times during safety recalls. The research provides an overview of the evolution of food safety regulations, beginning with the first establishment by Upland Sinclair, and examines current traceability practices and technological advancements within the beverage sector. Through a case study on the BODYARMOR Sport Water recall, this thesis highlights vulnerabilities in the industry and presents strategies for implementing blockchain to address these issues. The findings underscore the importance of integrating blockchain with existing systems, ensuring accurate data entry, and tackling scalability and privacy concerns across businesses of all sizes. This thesis bridges the gap between academic research and industry practice, offering actionable insights into enhancing supply chain integrity through blockchain technology in the beverage industry.