## 4 Results
### Barriers and Enablers Identified for the Processing Link
On the other hand, the lack of knowledge of the real benefits also becomes a barrier to the adoption of technologies, mainly because, in some cases, it cannot be verified whether it will have a positive result on the process to be improved or if, on the contrary, it will generate many more problems [139; 140]. This lack of knowledge of the benefits is associated, in some research, with not having heard or known about these technologies through collaborative networks [139]. At the technological level, the obstacles presented by Food Informatics technologies are oriented to the specific challenges of each technology. Likewise, the need for cost-effective and efficient technologies is challenging, as is the ability to convert these investments into added value for the Food Industry [138]. The literature shows that technologies such as Blockchain can add value to value chains through data and necessary information that must be exchanged transparently between the different links. Hence, authenticity needs to be guaranteed through protocols, standards, regulations, and national policies [133]. Data privacy is a priority aspect for processors because it allows for the generation of trust and reliability for the agri-food chain as a whole [134]. In this sense, the immutability of records and transactions can help producers, processors, and distributors to identify fraud. This element of data privacy is also linked to safeguarding the intellectual property of the actors involved and ensuring no security breaches [138]. Investment and maintenance costs, as well as the complexity and dedication of time and resources [9], become challenges for implementing Food Informatics technologies in the processing link [135]. Some research shows that investments in implementing Food Informatics technologies are perceived as unnecessary, not only because of the costs of the technology, but also because of the adjustments and other hidden costs of its maintenance and operation. However, other research shows how investment in technologies such as Blockchain can become an element that returns the investment quickly, reducing other costs [9]. In cases of resistance to change not only by employees, but also by the organization itself in the different phases of adoption, employees prefer to continue operating under regular routines and habits instead of adopting changes in their jobs to implement the technology [135]. Trust between firms is a key enabler for adopting Food Informatics technologies, especially when different organizations participate in the same value chain. This interaction creates trust between organizations and ensures ongoing participation, information sharing, and technology maintenance [145]. Table 11 shows the enablers identified for the processing link. Traceability, as a distinctive feature of the adoption of Food Informatics technologies, can help agri-food chains comply with commercial protocols so that economic returns can be generated from implementing these types of technologies [135]. Traceability is challenging to implement in agri-chains due to the complexity of suppliers and buyers [9]. Aligned with traceability, another factor that enables the implementation of technologies arises since it influences the awareness and intention of users to adopt technologies and plays an essential role in customer satisfaction [135]. This factor is the lack of transparency. It can generate a loss of quality and safety, causing damage to people and businesses, so it is essential to apply these technologies to products that can be mixed with others and generate cross-contamination [9]. These elements mentioned above allow for the implementation of technologies such as smart contracts that support the production, processing, and marketing links. Smart contracts facilitate disintermediation, reduce transaction costs and information asymmetry, ensure business transactions, and enable audit processes [135].