Impact of climate change on food security: A systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis

Climate change is a major threat to global food security, disrupting agricultural systems and deepening socio-economic vulnerabilities. This study integrates a systematic literature review (SLR) and bibliometric analysis of peer-reviewed research published between 2019 and 2024 to assess climate impacts, adaptation strategies, and regional disparities. A total of 112 articles were systematically identified from the Scopus database following PRISMA guidelines. Evidence was organized using the Theory–Context–Characteristics–Methodology (TCCM) framework, while bibliometric techniques in R Studio and VOSviewer generated keyword networks and thematic clusters to trace research trajectories. Findings show that econometric and simulation models dominate the field, though mixed-methods, geospatial tools, and integrated modeling are increasingly applied. Adaptation strategies such as crop diversification, resilient crop varieties, conservation agriculture, and water resource management enhance resilience, yet their uptake is uneven due to financial, institutional, and infrastructural barriers. Regional disparities are most pronounced in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, where dependence on rainfed farming and weak governance heighten vulnerability. Bibliometric analysis highlights research clustering around climate variability, production, and adaptation, while revealing gaps in long-term evaluation, nutrition outcomes, and socio-institutional dimensions. Policy and institutional support especially equitable access to credit, extension, and climate information are essential for scaling adaptation. By combining systematic review and bibliometric evidence, this study provides a structured foundation for advancing sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient food systems.