Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges to the global food supply chain (FSC). This study reviewed 194 academic papers to comprehensively assess the impact of the epidemic on FSC. The findings reveal disruptions on both the demand and supply sides of the FSC. Demand-side disruptions included a surge in retail demand due to panic buying, temporary food supply shortages, and a shift towards online shopping and door-to-door delivery services. On the supply side, the pandemic caused labor shortages, reduced production capacity, challenges in transportation and logistics, and disruptions in international trade. The research synthesized various resilience strategies from the literature, such as multiple sourcing, backup suppliers, collaborative relationships, direct marketing, and the adoption of digital technologies. The study also highlights the significant role of technology, including blockchain, Industry 4.0 technologies, and artificial intelligence et al., in enhancing FSC resilience. Based on the reviewed literature, the study suggests a theoretical framework that can help the food sector build a more resilient FSC to better cope with similar disruptions or emergencies in the post-COVID-19 era. Finally, we proposed future research directions. These insights are valuable for both scholars and practitioners, enhancing their understanding of the FSC’s vulnerability during emergencies and offering a pathway towards a more resilient food system. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2025.