Strategic Knowledge Management in Food Crisis Communication: A Framework for Organizational Preparedness and Consumer Trust

The intersection of knowledge management and crisis communication is essential for enhancing organizational resilience, especially in the food industry. This paper examines how knowledge management frameworks, including situational crisis communication theory, facilitate the effective dissemination of critical information during crises. Fresh Express, Tyson Foods, JBS Foods, and Costco case studies illustrate how knowledge-sharing platforms and real-time data exchange mitigate risks and build consumer trust. Failures, such as delays in the 2019 Escherichia coli outbreak, highlight the urgent need for robust data management. Leveraging organizational learning and memory, companies can navigate crises, like product recalls and supply chain disruptions, while aligning crisis communication with long-term recovery. This research underscores the strategic importance of integrating global knowledge networks, emerging technologies, and innovative management practices to enhance transparency, collaboration, and operational stability in high-stakes environments.