By Eamonn Ryan
The following is the transcript of a presentation by John Ackermann – previous editor and founder of this publication – on the impact of the cold chain, commemorating World Refrigeration Day on 26 June. It is Part 3 of a four-part series.
On this World Refrigeration Day, stakeholders from the South African Institute of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (SAIRAC) gathered to highlight their ongoing efforts in promoting sustainable practices within the refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) sector.
This continuation elaborates on John Ackermann’s presentation, focusing on the broader implications of the cold chain in ensuring food safety, sustainability, and economic stability.
Challenges and considerations in maintaining the cold chain
Continuing his presentation, John Ackermann delved deeper into the intricate challenges and critical considerations involved in maintaining the integrity of the cold chain. He emphasised that the cold chain is not merely about refrigeration; it is about safeguarding product quality and minimizing waste from source to consumer.
“One of the fundamental aspects of the cold chain,” Ackermann emphasised, “is ensuring that each product is maintained at its optimal storage temperature to preserve its quality.” He pointed out that any compromise in initial product quality will not be rectified by refrigeration alone.
Ackermann illustrated the diversity of the cold chain through examples such as refrigerated marine containers and multi-temperature vehicles used for transporting various perishable goods. He highlighted how these technologies enable consumers to enjoy fresh produce year-round, regardless of seasonal availability.
A poignant focus of Ackermann’s presentation was on the pharmaceutical cold chain, crucial for distributing vaccines and medications across vast distances, particularly in Africa. He stressed the catastrophic consequences of a broken cold chain, where ineffective vaccines could render life-saving treatments useless.
“The impact of cold chain failures goes beyond product loss,” Ackermann lamented. “It contributes significantly to food waste, with as much as 35% of initially good products being discarded due to compromised quality.” This wastage, he pointed out, not only exacerbates global food insecurity but also incurs unnecessary carbon emissions from the transportation of wasted goods.
Addressing additional challenges, Ackermann highlighted issues such as theft, contamination risks from foreign bodies and odors, and the imperative for energy-efficient refrigeration practices. He underscored the importance of using refrigerants with low Global Warming Potential (GWP) to mitigate environmental impact throughout the cold chain.
“Efficiency in energy consumption,” Ackermann noted, “is crucial at every stage of the cold chain, from storage facilities to transportation vehicles.” He emphasised the need for ongoing maintenance and specialized skills to ensure equipment operates optimally, minimizing energy use and carbon footprint.
In conclusion of this segment of his presentation, Ackermann called for heightened awareness and collaboration among all stakeholders in the cold chain to address these challenges effectively. “Each participant,” he urged, “must uphold stringent standards to ensure that products maintain their quality and safety from start to finish.”
Ackermann’s comprehensive overview underscored the intricate web of challenges and responsibilities within the cold chain, urging continuous innovation and adherence to best practices to sustainably meet global demand for safe, quality food and pharmaceuticals.