In the rapidly evolving landscape of food safety, digital governance is emerging as a critical tool to ensure transparency, efficiency, and accountability across global supply chains. A recent study published in *Liang you shipin ke-ji* sheds light on the burgeoning field of food safety digital governance, offering insights into research trends, key players, and future directions. The study, led by WANG Yu-long from the College of Business and Pharmacy at Zhejiang Pharmaceutical University, employed bibliometric methods and visualization techniques to analyze over 4,000 articles spanning two decades.
The research reveals a significant uptick in scholarly interest in food safety digital governance, with annual publication volumes steadily increasing. This trend underscores the growing recognition of digital tools’ potential to revolutionize food safety management. “The shift from traditional supply chain management to risk governance and digital government reflects a broader industry-wide pivot towards leveraging technology for enhanced safety and efficiency,” notes WANG Yu-long.
The study highlights that China and the United States are at the forefront of this research, with Chinese universities, particularly China Agricultural University, contributing substantially to the literature. However, the analysis also reveals a fragmented landscape, with English literature journals showing more concentration compared to the scattered nature of Chinese journals. This disparity suggests opportunities for greater collaboration and knowledge sharing between international and domestic research institutions.
One of the most compelling findings is the identification of emerging research hotspots, including artificial intelligence, blockchain, and machine learning. These technologies are poised to transform food safety digital governance by enabling real-time monitoring, traceability, and predictive analytics. “The integration of these technologies into food safety frameworks can significantly enhance the ability to detect and mitigate risks, ultimately safeguarding public health and consumer trust,” explains WANG.
For the agriculture sector, the implications are profound. The adoption of digital governance tools can streamline supply chain operations, reduce food waste, and improve compliance with regulatory standards. As the study suggests, the future of food safety lies in the seamless integration of advanced technologies, fostering a more resilient and transparent food system. By embracing these innovations, the agriculture industry can not only enhance safety but also drive commercial growth and sustainability.
This research serves as a clarion call for increased collaboration and investment in digital governance technologies. As the global food system becomes increasingly complex, the insights gleaned from this study will be instrumental in shaping policies and practices that prioritize safety, efficiency, and innovation.