Research on the construction of a traceability system for imported cold chain food based on blockchain technology under COVID-19

ABSTRACT

[Purpose and significance] Since the initial outbreak of COVID-19, many local epidemics have been related to imported cold chain food, so the construction of an imported cold chain food traceability system is extremely urgent. In this paper, we propose the use of blockchain technology to build an imported cold chain food traceability system to achieve informatization of the whole chain for imported cold chain food. Under this system, when food quality or epidemic-related problems occur, it will be possible to clearly identify the responsible subject and trace the source of the problem to enable recall of products and other responses. The establishment of an imported cold chain food traceability system is of great significance in alleviating the pressure of the epidemic in China, improving regulatory efficiency, shaping the corporate brand image, and enhancing consumer trust. [Summary] First, we systematically categorize the reasons why imported cold chain food has repeatedly become a risk point during the epidemic. Second, we conduct a detailed analysis of the advantages of blockchain technology, which we propose to use to build an imported cold chain food traceability system;these advantages include its characteristics of decentralization and immutability. We also divide the traceability system into four layers application, collection, communication, and data storage, and provide a brief description of each. Finally, in view of the difficulties and deficiencies faced in the construction of a blockchain traceability system, we put forward suggestions for improvement. In the context of normalization of the epidemic, an imported cold chain food traceability system based on blockchain technology can effectively solve the problems of information opacity, difficulties in information sharing, and poor information security. To enhance the application of blockchain technology to imported cold chain food traceability, we argue that the state, enterprises, and even consumers should participate in and use their different levels of power to contribute to the construction and development of a blockchain traceability system.