The Future of Food Security: The Role of Blockchain Technology in Global Aquaculture
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31436/ijpcc.v11i1.540Keywords:
aquaculture, blockchain technology, traceability, food safety, sustainabilityAbstract
The aquaculture sector faces challenges in maintaining a transparent and traceable supply chain, leading to issues like fraud and compromised food safety for consumers worldwide. Studies reveal that nearly 20% of the global seafood industry engages in mislabelling practices, which significantly undermines consumer trust. From harvesting to sale, blockchain technology offers a safe, immutable database that records each stage of the supply chain. Reliability is ensured by users verifying the data. IoT devices and QR codes gather real-time data on product origin, quality, and handling to improve safety and trust making it available to authorities and consumers. The importance of implementing a robust sustainability and traceability system and becomes evident with the European Commission’s decision to temporarily suspend fish imports from Thailand due to the prevalence of illegal fishing practices. This blockchain-based strategy offers an integrated solution to current supply chain problems by enhancing regulatory compliance, minimising fraud, and fostering sustainable behaviours. By documenting each stage in an immutable ledger, this study explores blockchain’s potential to transform the aquaculture supply chain, creating a system where product history is fully transparent for consumers and regulators. Most case studies and research, focus primarily on developed regions. This underscores the need for further exploration of blockchain implementation in small-scale and underdeveloped aquaculture settings. Ultimately, this solution fosters a safer, more responsible seafood industry that promotes sustainable practices and benefits society overall.
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