A systematic scoping review of the sustainability of vertical farming, plant-based alternatives, food delivery services and blockchain in food systems

Abstract

Food system technologies (FSTs) are being developed to accelerate the transformation towards sustainable food systems. Here we conducted a systematic scoping review that accounts for multiple dimensions of sustainability to describe the extent, range and nature of peer-reviewed literature that assesses the sustainability performance of four FSTs: plant-based alternatives, vertical farming, food deliveries and blockchain technology. Included literature had a dominant focus on environmental sustainability and less on public health and socio-economic sustainability. Gaps in the literature include empirical assessments on the sustainability of blockchain technology, plant-based seafood alternatives, public health consequences of food deliveries and socio-economic consequences of vertical farming. The development of a holistic sustainability assessment framework that demonstrates the impact of deploying FSTs is needed to guide investments in and the development of sustainable food innovation.

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“…Population growth is also creating a competitive environment among agricultural producers, requiring them to innovate to differentiate themselves and compete in the market. In the face of increasing demand and competition, the analysis showed that efficient production requires a shift to sustainable farming, using environmentally friendly methods and green technologies (Bunge et al, 2022).…”

Vertical farming: A sustainable agriculture format of the future

“…The potential of vertical farming lies in its ability to meet the needs of an expanding global population in a way that is economically feasible, socially just, and environmentally conscious. These benefits will come from technological advancements, increased public acceptance, and a dedication to environmental stewardship (Bunge et al, 2022) [10] .…”

“…Vertical farming maximizes the use of vertical space, allowing for the cultivation of crops in stacked layers. Due to its ability to produce more crops per square meter than traditional horizontal farming, this method is appropriate for urban areas with limited land (Bunge et al, 2022;Giurgiu et al, 2015) [10,17] . Vertical farms aim to optimize resource use, including water, nutrients, and energy.…”

From Palm to Plate: Unveiling the Potential of Coconut as a Plant-Based Food Alternative

“…To address potential nutrient deficiencies, individuals should ensure they include a wide variety of nutrient-dense foods in their diets. It has been reported that soy-based cheese analogues exhibit superior nutritional profiles compared to those derived from coconut oil . Therefore, incorporating coconut-based alternatives alongside a varied assortment of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes is recommended to achieve a balanced and nutritionally comprehensive diet. − This approach ensures the intake of a broad spectrum of essential nutrients, contributing to overall health and well-being.…”