Recent advances in the cold chain system

Compliance with the cold chain is essential in order to ensure optimal preservation of perishable foods and provide consumers with safe, wholesome products. In this article, new developments in the cold chain at production, processing, storage, transport and retail levels, as well as an insight into certain concepts related to specific refrigeration issues in warm developing countries are presented. Several aspects are dealt with: national structures required in order to develop cold chains; higher costs hindering cold-chain development in developing countries; the prime importance of tailored training and research; the role of exports in promoting refrigeration technologies; and finally, the role of local engineering and design consultants.