The Roles of Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things and Blockchain in Monitoring and Controlling Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons ( PAHs ) and Heterocyclic Amines ( HCAs

ABSTRACT

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs) are carcinogenic compounds that form in processed meat during high‐temperature cooking methods such as grilling or frying, posing significant food safety and public health challenges. Traditional detection methods are often time‐consuming, expensive, and lack real‐time capabilities, hindering effective mitigation strategies. This review evaluates the roles of artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, and blockchain technologies in monitoring and controlling polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heterocyclic amines in processed meat, with emphasis on improving food safety, traceability, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance across production systems. A PRISMA‐guided systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar (2015–2026), initially identifying 268 records. After screening, 95 studies were included. Inclusion criteria covered peer‐reviewed articles on AI, IoT, and blockchain in processed meat safety. Excluded were non‐English, duplicates, and irrelevant studies lacking PAH or HCA focus. Artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, and blockchain collectively enhance monitoring of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heterocyclic amines in processed meat through real‐time sensing, predictive analytics, and immutable traceability systems. Benefits include improved food safety, early hazard detection, supply chain transparency, and regulatory compliance. Constraints involve high implementation costs, interoperability issues, data privacy concerns, and limited infrastructure in developing regions. Industry adoption is increasing in smart processing plants, but full commercialization remains moderate due to scalability challenges. Future directions include edge‐AI integration, low‐cost biosensors, and standardized blockchain frameworks for global food safety harmonization and sustainable meat processing systems.