Cold chain packaging, also known as temperature-controlled packaging, refers to packaging and transportation systems built primarily to keep items at a consistent temperature, from processing to the final sale. Temperature-controlled packaging solutions were first created to preserve temperature-sensitive products (chilled or frozen) in transportation, but have now grown to include packaging that protects room-temperature products from excessive external temperatures.
Products such as fresh vegetables, dairy, eggs, and frozen food must all be packaged and sent in temperature-controlled containers. Temperature-controlled packaging solutions keep fresh produce, frozen food at proper temperatures, and delicate items such as chocolate from melting in transportation.
What cold-chain packaging options are available?
Temperature-sensitive goods, such as meat, fruits and vegetables, seafood and so on, must be kept within a certain temperature range to ensure product quality. Active shippers have built-in cooling systems to maintain a steady cargo temperature despite the exterior environmental temperature, but the size and weight, as well as the high initial cost, are major drawbacks.
Passive shippers manage payload temperature by passively regulating heat transfer between the shipper payload and the external environment. The container (box), the insulating layer, thermal buffer elements (ice packs or phase change material (PCM) packs), and the payload at the centre are the key components from outside to inside.
Reusable passive shippers are made of strong boxes with solid walls that include insulation. The PCM packs are placed in a circle around the centrally located payload. Removable insulated cardboard cartons and Styrofoam boxes are examples of single-use shippers.
To minimize temperature fluctuations during the temperature-controlled supply chain, items must be packaged with care. Temperature-controlled shipping containers are an essential component of the cold chain. Typically, these packaging solutions are the outcome of combined material and system engineering.
PCM packs are also known as coolant packs or eutectic packs. Generally, the packs are either stiff plastic flat containers (e.g., HDPE) or flexible plastic pouches. The cost, convenience of manufacturing, plastic compatibility with the PCM, and durability are all established in the selection procedure. Rigid packs can hold many litres of PCM, but flexible packs typically hold around one litre.
What are some of the benefits of temperature-controlled packaging?
Cold chain packing has several advantages, including:
Product Excellence
Using high-grade temperature-controlled packaging ensures constant product quality from manufacture through delivery. This increases consumer satisfaction and decreases the possibility of product loss, enhancing your total profitability.
Customer happiness
You can ensure that your clients receive high-quality items that are reliable and consistent by using insulated packaging. This translates to recurring clients, positive reviews, and increased customer satisfaction with your business in today's digital era. Furthermore, you may pass on your savings to the client, making your brand more competitive in the market.
Distribution Criteria
As customers grow more aware of product sourcing, companies in every area face more regulation and accountability. You can remain ahead of the competition by employing temperature-controlled and cold-chain packaging. Maintain ideal temperatures for your products to avoid product recalls and to remain ahead of increasingly demanding distribution standards throughout the world.