Blockchain Applications in Food Supply Chains in Developing Countries: A Systematic Review of Traceability, Transparency, and Trust

This paper brings to the fore the application of blockchain technology in food supply chains within developing countries, focusing on its role in improving traceability, transparency, and trust. The study systematically identified and analyzed a total of 37 peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2020 and 2025. The findings highlight blockchain's capacity to address inefficiencies in supply chain management but also identity persistent challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, low digital literacy, high implementation costs, and regulatory gaps. Technologies such as smart contracts, IoT, and RFID have frequently been integrated to support blockchain-based solutions. This review identified significant research gaps including the need for empirical validation, integration strategies for smallholder farmers, and economic feasibility assessments. This review highlights the significance of a more context-sensitive, interdisciplinary, and impact-driven research agenda to fully utilize the transformative potential of blockchain for resilient and equitable food supply chains in developing economies.