Incorporating industry 5.0 into the agri-food supply chain: a systematic literature network analysis of sustainability, resilience, human-centricity, and implementation barriers

Abstract:: Industry 5.0 (I5.0) emerged in response to the limitations of Industry 4.0. It emphasizes sustainability, resilience, and a human-centric approach. This transition is particularly relevant in agri-food supply chains (AGSCs) due to challenges related to food security, climate disruptions, and social inclusion. This study presents a systematic literature network analysis (SLNA) in accordance with the PRISMA protocol. A total of 100 peer-reviewed studies published after 2020 were analyzed using Bibliometrix, VOSviewer, BERTopic-LSA, to map research trends and identify implementation barriers. The results reveal that existing literature predominantly focuses on sustainability and resilience, typically operationalized through digital technologies. However, the human-centric pillar is understudied, with limited empirical validation and an absence of standardized metrics across AGSCs contexts. Multi-Attribute Decision-Making (MADM) approaches—particularly Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), TOPSIS, Best-Worst Method (BWM), and fuzzy models—emerge as the most effective analytical tools. However, significant barriers persist: (i) prohibitive implementation costs for SMEs, (ii) lack of standardized resilience metrics, (iii) insufficient empirical validation of theoretical frameworks, and (iv) weak governance and cultural misalignment among stakeholders. The review also highlights fragmented approaches that address the I5.0 pillars separately, which limits the development of integrated methodologies. These findings underscore the need for multi-level frameworks that connect technological, organizational, and social enablers to create cohesive and adaptive AGSCs. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on I5.0 by offering policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders an evidence-based synthesis and a structured research agenda to foster innovation, sustainability, and human-centered value creation in agri-food systems.