Classification, Evaluation and Adoption of Innovation: A Systematic Review of the Agri-Food Sector

The transition towards sustainable agri-food systems requires understanding factors influencing innovation adoption across agri-food companies. This systematic literature review, following PRISMA methodology, examines innovation types, their intended purposes, and adoption determinants among worldwide stakeholders. Data were extracted from Scopus and Web of Science databases using rigorous selection criteria, covering publications from January 2014 to January 2025. From 775 initial records, 80 publications were selected for quantitative analysis, of these 74 empirical studies included in qualitative analysis. Innovations were categorized based on ecological, economic, social, and institutional purposes, revealing ecological purpose innovations predominated. Subsequently, adoption factors were classified using the tripartite framework based on extrinsic, intrinsic, and intervening variables. Findings reveal developing regions (Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia) representing 65% of studies. Agriculture sector dominated research attention, with cereals as the most investigated value chain, reflecting their fundamental role in global food security and nutrition. Analysis demonstrates that adoption decisions result from complex interactions between external structural conditions, individual psychological factors, and support mechanisms. Results underscore the context-dependent nature of innovation adoption and the need for context-sensitive, multi-stakeholder approaches facilitating sustainable and digital food system transformations.