Motivations and challenges for food companies in using IoT sensors for reducing food waste: some insights and a road map for the future

Ram Ramanathan
,
Yanqing Duan
,
Tahmina Ajmal
,
Katarzyna Pelc
,
James Gillespie
,
Sahar Ahmadzadeh Ghahnaviehei

Business & Management Research Institute (BMRI)
,
Ulster University
,
Whysor B.V.
,
University of Bedfordshire
,
Nottingham Trent University

Research Output:

Contribution to journal

Article

Peer-review

Open access

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 2 Zero Hunger

Abstract

Food waste is a serious problem worldwide, including in Europe. Research efforts are being carried out to reduce food waste. In this paper, we focus on using modern digital technologies (also known as Industry 4.0 technologies) to reduce waste in food supply chains. Based on interactions with a number of food companies in Europe over the last four years using Action Research, we provide new insights on the motivations and challenges for food companies when they are engaged in the use of technologies for reducing food waste in their supply chains. Motivations for firms include improved food quality of their produce, improved reliability, support in meeting legal requirements, a green image, and improved revenues from selling the food that has been saved. However, data security issues and trust issues posed challenges in using these technologies. Since this is an emerging area of research, we look at potential business models for technology companies for working with food companies in reducing food waste, identify value propositions and value capture, and look at how these investments in technologies can improve the sustainability of food businesses. We believe technology companies can leverage the opportunities, develop new business models with value propositions around the use of technologies, and support food companies via timely alerts in case of potential quality issues. Value capture occurs via the sale of hardware and subscriptions.

Publication Information

Output type

Research Output:

Contribution to journal

Article

Peer-review

Original language

English

Article number

1665

Pages from-to (Number of pages)

Pages 1665

Journal (Volume, Issue Number)

Sustainability (Switzerland) (Volume 15, Issue 2)

Publication milestones

Accepted/In press - 12/01/2023
Published - 15/01/2023

Publication status

Published - 15/01/2023

ISSN

2071-1050

Publication IDs

handle.net: 10547/625696
Scopus: 85146733301

Access to documents

10.3390/su15021665

sustainability-Motivations and Challenges for Food Companies in Using IoT Sensors for Reducing Food Waste - Some Insights and a Road Map for the Future 2023.pdf

Final published version, 976.94 KB

License:CC BY

https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/15/2/1665

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