Discover your next big idea in food packaging & processing this Sept.
Experience a breakthrough in food packaging & processing—explore solutions from 2,300 suppliers spanning all industries at PACK EXPO Las Vegas.
REGISTER TODAY & SAVE

Blockchain meets the manufacturing supply chain

Despite early confusion about the technology, suppliers are developing network frameworks and apps that will make blockchain an essential part of food and pharma industries.

Pfw 7158 Screen Shot 2017 10 26 At 10 46 55 Am

At the beginning of this year, I asked the question: “Could Blockchain Solve Pharma’s Drug Supply Chain Security Act Challenges?” Fast forward nine months, and, considering new research, proof of concept studies and product offerings for manufacturing, it appears the answer is, “yes,” we have entered the age of blockchain in the supply chain. And it could solve pharma’s regulatory mandates—as well as be a fit for every industry segment requiring more trust in the supply chain.

According to the Blockchain Research Institute, an organization whose founding members include IBM, SAP, Nasdaq, Deloitte, PepsiCo, FedEx, and blockchain pioneers, like Nuco, just to name a few, blockchain as an Industry 4.0 technology. In the simplest terms, the Institute defines blockchain as the second generation of the digital revolution that creates the “Internet of Value,” a way of building digital relationships that will reshape the way in which we do business.

This month, the Blockchain Research Institute released a case study on electronics manufacturer Foxconn, which has been experimenting with blockchain technology using advanced cryptographic techniques and decentralized networks to build a trusted relationship among its suppliers, partners, factories and customers. The study also explores what Foxconn calls “Chained Finance,” to manage payments and solve a number of integration issues. According to the report, it appears that Foxconn is successfully leveraging blockchain technology as a tool for the movement of money, goods and agreements.

So, while Foxconn may be on the forefront of building a solid blockchain infrastructure, there are things every manufacturer should know before following in their footsteps. Specifically, be aware of what blockchain can—and can’t—do.

Break out of the ordinary: see what’s new in food packaging & processing
<strong>At PACK EXPO Las Vegas you’ll see machinery in action and new tech from 2,300 suppliers, collaborate with experts and explore transformative solutions. Join us this September to experience a breakthrough in food packaging and processing.</strong>
REGISTER NOW AND SAVE!
Break out of the ordinary: see what’s new in food packaging & processing
Liquid Foods Innovations Report
Welcome to the inaugural Packaging World/ProFood World Innovations Report on liquid food packaging, drawn from nearly 300 PACK EXPO International booth visits (Chicago, Nov. 3–6, 2024). Our editors highlight the most groundbreaking equipment and materials—supported by video demos—that promise to transform how liquid foods are processed, packaged, and delivered.
Learn More
Liquid Foods Innovations Report