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Cold chain management of perishable distribution in northern communities of Canada.

Author(s) : ÉMOND J. P., MERCIER F., LAURIN É., et al.

Summary

Transport of perishables, such as fruits and vegetables, to isolated northern communities as part of Canada Post, and Indian and Northern Affairs Canada Food Mail Program has always been a big challenge. Because of the unique conditions (extreme cold, strong winds, snow storms, abundant rain) encountered throughout the distribution process, the cold chain is rarely maintained resulting in enormous losses of perishables. The objective of this project was: 1) study the actual situation of the cold chain; 2) identify the weaknesses of the distribution process. In order to learn about the conditions encountered during transportation and to identify the critical points, temperature and relative humidity were monitored with sensors placed inside the loads and inside the cargo holds of the airplane. Qualities of fruits and vegetables, handling procedures and packaging materials were accessed at each transit point. Results showed that several aspects of the distribution process needed to be improved in order to deliver fruits and vegetables with a better quality. Thus, improvement of the cold chain management, handling operations, and development of new packaging are necessary. Furthermore, this complex distribution process needs to be accessed as a whole since one missing step in the cold chain may jeopardize the entire effort.

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Details

  • Original title: Cold chain management of perishable distribution in northern communities of Canada.
  • Record ID : 2004-3029
  • Languages: English
  • Source: 21st IIR International Congress of Refrigeration: Serving the Needs of Mankind.
  • Publication date: 2003/08/17

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