A framework for the adoption of blockchain technology for food traceability in the South African fast-moving consumer goods industry

Abstract

Orientation: South Africa’s fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector faces food traceability challenges because of fragmented systems, manual procedures and poor information sharing. Technologies such as enterprise resource planning (ERP), quick response codes and radio-frequency identification often operate in silos, limiting interoperability and food safety.
Research purpose: This article proposes a blockchain-based framework grounded in network theory that integrates existing technologies with blockchain to provide decentralised, end-to-end traceability across the supply chain.
Motivation for the study: Fragmented systems, manual procedures and poor supply chain information sharing in South Africa’s FMCG sector compromise traceability, affecting both safety and efficiency. This study addresses the blockchain integration gap by proposing a network theory-based blockchain framework for secure, end-to-end traceability.
Research design, approach and method: The study employed a qualitative, interpretivist approach, using purposive and snowball sampling to conduct semi-structured interviews and focus groups with participants from food manufacturing FMCG companies with active global company prefixes (GCPs) in Gauteng, South Africa. Data were analysed using content analysis with ATLAS.ti.
Main findings: Three findings emerged: (1) limited information sharing undermines traceability and safety, (2) ERP systems lack farm-to-fork capabilities, and (3) non-integrated systems cause inefficient tracking and recalls.
Practical/managerial implications: Fast-moving consumer goods companies must integrate traceability technologies and automate data collection to strengthen food safety, recalls and consumer trust.
Contribution/value added: The study recommends technology adoption, inter-organisational adoption and investment in integrated traceability systems. The proposed framework supports food safety, consumer trust and supply chain resilience.