Internet of Things and blockchain applications in food audit, authenticity, and traceability: A systematic review

Abstract

This review evaluates the integrated applications of the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain technologies in enhancing food audit systems, authenticity verification, and supply chain traceability, transparency, and data reliability. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines, a systematic review was conducted using Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, and Google Scholar to identify peer‐reviewed studies published between 2010 and 2025. The search yielded 428 records, of which 112 full‐text articles were assessed and 68 studies met the inclusion criteria for qualitative synthesis. Findings demonstrate that IoT‐enabled sensors provide real‐time monitoring of critical factors such as temperature, humidity, storage, and transportation conditions, whereas blockchain offers secure, transparent, and immutable recording of supply chain transactions. The integration of these technologies strengthens traceability, accelerates contamination source identification, minimizes food fraud, and enhances regulatory compliance. Despite these benefits, widespread adoption remains constrained by interoperability challenges, data privacy concerns, high implementation costs, and insufficient standardization. The review further highlights the potential of emerging innovations, including artificial intelligence‐driven analytics, smart contracts, and low‐cost sensing technologies, to support automated auditing, proactive risk management, and sustainable food supply chain governance. Overall, IoT and blockchain represent complementary digital solutions capable of transforming food quality assurance and supply chain accountability.