Any interruption in temperature-controlled conditions from production to consumption, potentially compromising product safety or quality.
Cold Chain Data Integrity
Definition: The accuracy, consistency, and reliability of temperature data throughout the cold chain. Encompasses data collection, transmission, storage, and protection from manipulation or loss. Why It Matters: Data integrity is essential for regulatory compliance (GDP) and legal defensibility. Temperature records may be required as evidence in product liability cases. Regulators increasingly focus on data integrity in audits. ALCOA+ Principles:– Attributable:…
Cold Chain Equipment Lifecycle
Definition: The complete lifespan of cold chain equipment from manufacturing through installation, operation, maintenance, and end-of-life disposal or recycling. Includes environmental impact considerations at each stage. Why It Matters: Total environmental impact includes more than operational emissions. Lifecycle thinking informs procurement decisions. Regulatory requirements for refrigerant recovery at end-of-life. Sustainability reporting increasingly includes Scope 3 emissions. Lifecycle Stages:– Manufacturing: Materials,…
Cold Chain Packaging
Specialized insulated shipping containers designed to maintain pharmaceutical temperature requirements (+2°C to +8°C typically) for specific duration (24-96+ hours).
Cold Plate System
Passive cooling system using eutectic plates that are pre-frozen and provide cooling through phase-change melting process. No engine power or fuel required during operation.
Cold Room
Insulated enclosure with refrigeration equipment for storing temperature-sensitive products. Ranges from small walk-in coolers to large warehouse-scale facilities.
Compressor
The heart of a mechanical refrigeration system. Compresses refrigerant vapor from low pressure (evaporator) to high pressure (condenser), enabling the refrigeration cycle.
Condenser
Heat exchanger where high-pressure refrigerant vapor is cooled and condensed to liquid, rejecting heat to the environment (typically ambient air or water).
Contamination (Cross-Contamination)
Transfer of harmful bacteria, allergens, or foreign material from one product/surface to another.
Cool Chain
Sometimes used to describe the upper range of temperature-controlled logistics (+8°C to +15°C), typically for products like fresh produce, wine, or pharmaceuticals that require cooling but not true refrigeration.