Dr. Pushpendra Pratap Singh, Country Head, Asia Shipping,identifies temperature fluctuations and limited visibility as primary challenges in fresh food supply chains. He discusses blockchain’s potential in enhancing transparency, traceability, and consumer trust while addressing adoption barriers through strategic approaches.
As we look ahead, blockchain is poised to revolutionize the fresh food supply chain
In today’s fresh food supply chain, transparency and traceability face two significant challenges. Firstly, temperature fluctuations are a big issue. While reefer containers help maintain proper temperatures, deviations can occur during transfers between warehouses, factories, and transportation units. Slight temperature variations (+/- 2.5 °C) may not significantly impact food quality, however, larger deviations can compromise freshness, safety, and overall quality. Real-time temperature monitoring is crucial, but there are often gaps, especially during transportation to Inland Container Depots.
Secondly, limited visibility is a concern. Traditional methods lack complete insight into the supply chain. Discrepancies upon delivery require investigations to determine if temperature changes occurred during the journey. This not only hampers transparency but also delays decision-making and leads to wasted resources.
Transparency triumph
Blockchain technology offers a promising solution for these challenges. Its core strength lies in creating an immutable record of temperature data throughout the supply chain. This continuous monitoring provides:
- Enhanced Transparency: All stakeholders can access the temperature data, fostering trust and accountability. Consumers gain confidence in the freshness and safety of the food they purchase.
- Improved Traceability: In cases of spoilage or damage, blockchain allows for pinpointing the exact location and time of temperature deviations. This facilitates faster response measures and helps identify potential weak points in the supply chain.
Challenges
Wider blockchain adoption faces hurdles, including human error and cost considerations. Despite technological advancements, human oversight remains critical for ensuring data accuracy and system effectiveness. Additionally, initial implementation costs may deter some stakeholders. However, the long-term benefits, such as enhanced efficiency, reduced spoilage, and improved brand reputation, often justify the investment. Overcoming these challenges is essential for maximizing blockchain’s potential in revolutionizing the fresh food supply chain.
Efficiency
To enhance cost-effectiveness in blockchain implementation across the food supply chain, stakeholders can adopt several strategies. Firstly, a phased approach involves integrating blockchain in critical segments initially, gradually expanding its coverage. Secondly, collaborative efforts among industries can foster the development of cost-effective solutions. Lastly, emphasizing value showcases blockchain’s return on investment through waste reduction, process streamlining, and bolstering consumer trust.
Future in fresh food
As we look ahead, blockchain is poised to revolutionize the fresh food supply chain. With advancing technology and reduced costs, we anticipate widespread adoption. Companies will leverage blockchain’s benefits for ensuring food safety, transparency, and efficiency. Seamless integration with existing logistics systems will create a comprehensive, data-driven approach to transportation. Ultimately, consumers will experience heightened confidence in the freshness and safety of their food, courtesy of blockchain-powered traceability. This trajectory signals a transformative shift in the industry, where blockchain emerges as a cornerstone of trust and integrity in the fresh food supply chain.
