Chapter-12: Digital Transformation in Horticulture: A Review of Integration of Agriculture 4.0 Technologies for Sustainable Food Systems

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) warns of impending food security as the global population nears 10 billion. This poses a significant challenge to horticulture sector where one third of the produce is lost or wasted. This review explores the transformative potential of Agriculture 4.0 technologies, mainly artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, blockchain and robots and devices, in enhancing food security and creating sustainable supply chains. These technologies can help in early disease detection, pest management, efficient resource use, improving yield and enhancing post-harvest management. Further it can help to manage inventory efficiently and ensure quality control and transparency in the supply chain. But adoption of these technologies is faced by barriers of infrastructural gaps, lack of technical knowledge, and financial hurdles. Wider adoption requires improved digital infrastructure, financial support systems, localized AI solutions, farmer training programs, and stronger public–private partnerships.