The cold chain must maintain a specific temperature range throughout the entire supply chain, from production to the final point of consumption, to ensure the quality and safety of the goods.

This temperature-controlled supply chain requires specialised infrastructure, including refrigerated warehouses, refrigerated vehicles and packaging materials, along with appropriate monitoring and control systems across the unbroken links of the cold chain.

Maintaining the integrity of the cold chain is critical to ensuring the safety and quality of perishable goods, as deviations from the required temperature range can result in spoilage, degradation, or even the loss of potency of the goods.

The cold chain originated in the late 18th century when British fishermen needed to find a way of keeping their catch cool in port before it was sold. But it wasn’t until the mid-19th century when reefer ships and refrigerator cars came into service that the cold chain really became a part of commercial food transport.

The first effective cold store was opened in St Katharine Docks in London in 1882, and the first mobile refrigeration vehicle was patented in the late 1930s in the US. By the 1950s refrigerated trucks and freight trains were carrying perishable food long distances, and cold chain technology has only developed exponentially since then.

Refrigerated reefer containers

Insulated containers equipped with refrigeration units to maintain the temperature of goods. They come in various sizes and can be used for the transportation of various temperature sensitive commodities. On ships they run on a constant power source, and are controlled via an integrated microprocessor. While on the road, reefer containers are powered with a genset, a combination of generator and engine.

MSC has one of the largest and most advanced reefer container fleets in the world.

Refrigerated vehicles

Specialized vehicles, such as refrigerated trucks and trailers, are equipped with temperature-controlled compartments to transport perishable goods over long distances.

Cool rooms and refrigerated warehouses

Temperature-controlled storage facilities used to store perishable goods for an extended period. They maintain a constant temperature and humidity level to keep produce refrigerated, frozen or cool.

Temperature monitoring systems

Devices used to track and record the temperature of perishable goods during storage and transportation. They help to ensure that the produce is kept within the required temperature range and to detect any deviations and send alerts to operational staff.

Insulated packaging materials

Materials such as foam boxes, gel packs and insulated liners, used to regulate temperatures during transportation. They are designed to keep the goods at the required temperature for a specific period.