The Role of Digital Technology in Advancing Sustainable Food Systems: Policy Implications for the Future

Abstract

The global food system faces unprecedented challenges due to climate change, population growth, and resource scarcity, necessitating a transition toward more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive practices. This study explores the transformative potential of digital technologies—such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), and big data—in advancing sustainable food systems. Employing a qualitative library research method, the study synthesizes current interdisciplinary literature and institutional reports to analyze how digital innovations contribute to ecological efficiency, transparency, and socio-economic inclusion across the food value chain. Findings reveal that while digital tools offer promising solutions for optimizing agricultural inputs, improving supply chain traceability, and enhancing smallholder access to markets and finance, significant barriers remain. These include infrastructural deficits, data governance issues, digital literacy gaps, and risks of technological exclusion. The discussion emphasizes the need for enabling policy environments that prioritize equity, ethical data use, interoperability, and participatory governance. Ultimately, the study argues that the digitalization of food systems must be guided by systemic, inclusive, and forward-looking policy frameworks to ensure that technological advancements contribute meaningfully to sustainability goals and do not reinforce existing inequalities. The paper offers policy recommendations for governments, international institutions, and civil society to navigate the future of food system digitalization responsibly.