Definition:Temperature-controlled supply chain that maintains product quality and safety from production through transport and storage to end consumer. Unbroken “chain” of refrigeration.
Temperature Ranges::
- **Deep frozen**: -30°C to -18°C
- **Frozen**: -18°C to 0°C
- **Chilled**: 0°C to +8°C
- **Cool**: +8°C to +15°C
- **Pharmaceutical**: +2°C to +8°C (strict)
- Production/processing facilities
- Cold storage and warehousing
- Refrigerated transport
- Temperature monitoring
- Handling and transfer procedures
- Retail refrigeration
- Consumer storage
Critical Principle:: Any break in the cold chain (temperature excursion, equipment failure) compromises product quality or safety. Hence “chain” metaphor – only as strong as weakest link.
Components::
Related Terms:: Temperature Control, Cold Storage, Refrigerated Transport, Temperature Monitoring