Causes and effects of cold chain ruptures

The scope of this study is to assess the performance of cold chains for fruit and vegetables by analyzing causes and effects of cold chain ruptures. It is based on a literature review on cold chain related publications collected in scientific databases and includes reports and papers published between 1969 and 2010. Weak points were analyzed and the implications for the management of cold chains examined. Major areas of concern were for example the lack of adequately skilled staff, careless physical handling of the produce, and the deficient management of product and information flow. This report contributes to the understanding of cold chain ruptures and helps managers in cold chain logistics to adapt the supply chain configuration to the challenges encountered.