Advancing HACCP, QMS, and FSMS in modern food and agricultural production; a systematic review on improving safe and sustainable production

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), food quality, and food safety management systems (FSMS) are fundamental to modern food and agricultural practices. This systematic review synthesises evidence from studies published between 2018 and 2026, examining advances in these frameworks in response to challenges such as climate change, sustainability demands, and emerging foodborne pathogens. Searches were conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, PMC, etc., identifying over 144 relevant studies. The retrieved evidence was analysed using qualitative and quantitative approaches, supported by a tailored quality appraisal. Findings were synthesised through narrative, thematic, and critical analyses, with supporting tables and figures. Key findings demonstrate that effective training strengthens food safety practices, regulatory enforcement improves compliance, and emerging technologies, particularly Industry 4.0 tools, enhance predictive food safety, traceability, and risk management. The review highlights the integration of digital technologies into HACCP and FSMS as a significant advancement for improving food quality and safety across food and agricultural systems. By consolidating evidence from diverse primary studies, this review identifies pathways for strengthening HACCP, food quality, and food safety management frameworks. The findings provide practical insights for policymakers, industry practitioners, manufacturers, and researchers seeking to improve food safety resilience and sustainability in contemporary food systems.