QualityChain – Revolutionizing Traceability for SMEs
Objective
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the agri-food sector face significant challenges in ensuring the authenticity, quality, and safety of their products due to a lack of transparency in the supply chain. Products like olive oil, wine, and wheat, which require strict control, are particularly vulnerable to these issues. SMEs struggle with financial, technical, and regulatory barriers that hinder the implementation of reliable traceability systems. This lack of visibility impacts consumer trust and compliance with food safety standards.
Result
QualityChain offers a cutting-edge traceability system that uses blockchain technology to address these challenges. The system is designed for SMEs, providing a cost-effective, easy-to-use platform that doesn’t require extensive IT infrastructure or expertise. It enables the tracking and verification of product data throughout the entire supply chain, creating a transparent and immutable record of product history. This ensures authenticity, builds consumer trust, and helps businesses comply with regulatory requirements.
Practical Implications/Recommendations
SMEs can use QualityChain to enhance product traceability, build consumer trust, and demonstrate compliance with food safety standards. By implementing this system, businesses can differentiate their products, reduce risks associated with recalls, and potentially increase prices by proving superior quality and sustainability. To get started, SMEs should evaluate their current supply chains and identify areas where blockchain can provide the most value. Staff training and ongoing system support are essential for successful integration.
Benefits
The main benefits include improved product transparency, higher consumer loyalty, reduced regulatory risks, and the ability to command higher prices for certified, quality products. The system also supports sustainability by reducing waste and optimizing logistics, which can lower carbon emissions.
Additional information
Authors:
Ciro Borrelli, Saverio Salaris, Carlo Vespa
Transparency solutions for transforming the food system
Ongoing | 2022-2026
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Belgium, Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Greece, Portugal, Spain, France, Finland, Poland, United Kingdom, Norway, Switzerland, Serbia