Enhancing perishable food supply chains through industry 4.0 technologies: review, challenges and opportunities
摘要
This study intends to uncover the current trend on how digitisation and Industry 4.0 technologies enhance the performance of the Perishable Food Supply Chain (PFSC) for improved security, quality, logistics, and reduced post-harvest loss. Employing a two-level decision methodology, the Scopus database was utilised, and 230 papers were meticulously selected. Thematic examination and classification of the selected papers are conducted to extract optimal insights. Our analysis of technological impacts across supply chain levels highlights their specific applications, from pre-harvest to retail. Moreover, our analysis suggests that Industry 4.0 technologies provide valuable insights into agri-food SCs, improving logistical performance. Exploring operational and tactical strategies, we show how these technologies enhance decision-making in network design, risk mitigation, and sustainability. By categorising pivotal papers within industrial sectors, potential applications in E-commerce, restaurants, and FMCG are uncovered. Moreover, the findings reveal that while the benefits of individual technologies are well recognised, integrated digital frameworks, especially in resource-constrained and emerging market settings, are still underdeveloped. The study proposes a conceptual framework that links critical supply chain drivers with relevant technological interventions, offering both theoretical grounding and practical relevance. By synthesising insights across technology categories and supply chain stages, this work advances the understanding of digital transformation in PFSCs and highlights strategic priorities for future research, policy development, and managerial action.