BE-AC: reliable blockchain-based anti-counterfeiting traceability solution for pharmaceutical industry

Currently, blockchain-based solutions for drug traceability encounter challenges related to counterfeit drug prevention, user identity verification, and scalability. This paper presents BE-AC, an enhanced blockchain-based drug traceability solution. To bolster the authenticity and integrity of drug information, we innovatively upgraded the EdDSA (Edwards-curve Digital Signature Algorithm) digital signature algorithm. Our enhancement incorporates the more advanced and efficient BLAKE3 hash function, replacing the conventional SHA-512 (Secure Hash Algorithm 512-bit). By employing larger hash windows and secure, efficient hash iteration modes, we expedite the generation and verification of digital signatures for drug information, thereby enhancing the overall performance and security of the system. Additionally, we have devised a decentralized identity authentication scheme. Through on-chain stored identity information, all participants can mutually verify each other's identities, effectively preventing identity impersonation and fraudulent transactions. Furthermore, we have implemented smart contracts to record and store all transaction information on-chain during the drug distribution process, ensuring reliable and convenient drug transaction traceability. To address scalability and information security, we introduced a collaborative on-chain and off-chain drug information storage solution. Experimental results demonstrate a remarkable 78.65% improvement in signature verification efficiency compared to the original algorithm. The designed solution exhibits noteworthy enhancements in identity authentication, system throughput, and storage efficiency.