The cold chain refers to the management of the temperature of perishable products in order to maintain quality and safety from the point of slaughter or harvest through the distribution chain to the final consumer.
The cold chain ensures that perishable products are safe and of a high quality at the point of consumption. Failing to keep product at the correct temperatures can result in a variety of negative attributes including, among others, textural degradation, discoloring, bruising and microbial growth. Moreover, a quality product leads to a satisfied customer, greater demand, and overall protection of public health.
Cold chain management
Cold chain management refers to the logistical process used to maintain optimal conditions during the transport, storage and handling of products such as pharmaceuticals and chemicals.
•Cold chain is the system of transporting or storing vaccine within the safe temperature range of 2°C to 8°C (strive for 5°C – the midway point).
•Cold chain breach is the exposure of vaccines to temperatures outside the recommended range of 2°C to 8°C, excluding fluctuations up to 12°C lasting less than 15 minutes when restocking, cleaning the fridge or stock taking.
•In most cases, cold chain breaches must be reported to the department as soon as possible using the Cold Chain Breach Report form. This form is also used to report light exposure breaches for light-sensitive vaccines.
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