### $**$Introduction:$**$

In the modern food industry, ensuring the safety and traceability of food products is crucial. Traditional methods of tracking food products through the supply chain, such as paper$-$based and digital data systems, are often inefficient and error$-$prone. Blockchain technology offers a promising solution to address these challenges effectively. In this case study, you will explore how blockchain technology can benefit retail food stores, using Countdown as a focal point.

### $**$Case Scenario:$**$

John, the CEO of Countdown, is interested in leveraging blockchain technology to enhance the efficiency of supply chain management and ensure food safety and traceability. He tasks the Chief Technical Officer, Luke, to arrange a short report and a presentation on blockchain technology for supply chain management, specifically focusing on its potential applications for Countdown. Luke assigns the task to the team, requiring a short report explaining various aspects of blockchain technology in the context of food traceability.

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### $**$Task $2$: Integrating Blockchain$**$

$**$LOLS:$**$ Integrate blockchain technology, cryptography, decentralised systems architectures, and information systems into innovative systems and services.

$-$ How can blockchain technology be integrated into Countdown$$s supply chain management system to enhance traceability and transparency?

$-$ What role does cryptography play in securing the data stored on the blockchain for Countdown$$s supply chain management system?

$-$ How can a decentralised systems architecture be designed for Countdown$$s supply chain management system to ensure scalability and efficiency?