Cold Chain Logistics: Challenges and Innovations in Temperature-Sensitive Product Distribution

Abstract

Cold chain logistics is paramount in preserving quality, safety, efficacy of temperature-sensitive products such as vaccination, biologics, seafood, and fresh products but is riddled with recurrent issues and gaps in low-level efficiency. The study will address the main shortcomings of cold chains by integrating field trials and temperature logger processors, 200 stakeholders in the logistics industry surveyed and the chieftains of the cold chain interviewed. The studies reveal that one out of every 32 deliverables experienced at least one temperature change, and its last-mile stage proved to be the weakest part due to poor vehicle cooling system, delays in staging, and poor consumer handling. The infrastructural deficiencies that worsen the risks include insufficient supplies of good storage methods, insufficient electricity, deficiency of trained employees, and inconsistency with enforcement of the GDP and FSMA requirements in the region with only 21 percent being completely consistent. The more expensive alternatives (such as blockchain traceability) and features available in large-volume references (such as active refrigerated containers) can be limited, but alternatives such as IoT-based monitoring and emerging concepts such as phase change material (PCM) packaging are also provided. The sustainability practices in the incidence recognized but not properly implemented include using reusable package materials and renewable-powered warehouses that can contribute to a monster number of emissions. Such outcomes emphasize the significance of such disorganized yet risk checked approaches integration of technological remedies, regulation and environmental responsibility. Through the study, it is possible to conduct new empirical discoveries and provide action insights to policymakers, logistics managers and other researchers to promote resilience, efficiency, and sustainability in the world cold chain systems.