Enhancing Sustainability in the Food and Beverage Supply Chain through Blockchain Technology: Challenges and Opportunities

This study investigates the potential of blockchain technology to enhance supply chain sustainability in the United Kingdom’s food and beverage sector. The research addresses gaps in understanding blockchain’s practical viability, adoption challenges, and its capacity to resolve critical issues such as traceability, transparency, and security within the supply chain. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders in the food and beverage industry. The study collected data from supply chain professionals to explore perceptions, challenges, and opportunities related to blockchain integration. The findings reveal that blockchain technology has transformative potential beyond traditional supply chain improvements. It not only enhances traceability and transparency but also provides a platform for addressing complex systemic issues such as fraudulent practices, inefficient inventory management, and inconsistencies in regulatory compliance. Stakeholders identified blockchain’s ability to integrate with IoT and other advanced technologies as a game-changer for real-time monitoring of product conditions, such as temperature and humidity, reducing waste and improving operational agility. Furthermore, blockchain’s decentralised nature fosters trust and accountability by creating immutable records, addressing longstanding concerns over food safety and counterfeit certifications. However, significant barriers remain, including the high initial costs of adoption, technological scalability, and the uneven technological readiness of smaller enterprises. These findings underscore the need for targeted strategies to bridge the gap between blockchain’s theoretical potential and its practical application.