What is Cold Chain Packaging?
Cold chain packaging is a type of packaging that is specifically designed to maintain the temperature of perishable goods during transportation and storage. The term "cold chain" refers to the continuous temperature-controlled supply chain that is used to keep perishable goods at a specific temperature range to prevent spoilage or degradation.
This category of packaging is used for a wide range of products, including fresh and frozen foods, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive items.
Types of Cold Chain Packaging Products
Cold chain packaging materials and systems are designed to provide insulation and temperature control to keep the products at the required temperature.
There are several different types of cold chain packaging materials and systems that can be used depending on the specific requirements of the products being transported. Some common options include:
Insulated containers: These are containers made of materials with good insulating properties, such as foam, that are used to keep the temperature of the products inside stable.
Refrigerants: These are materials that are used to absorb heat from the products being transported, helping to keep them cool. Common refrigerants include dry ice, gel packs, and liquid nitrogen.
Phase change materials: These are materials that change from a solid to a liquid state at a specific temperature, and can be used to absorb or release heat to maintain the temperature of the products.
Temperature-controlled packaging liners: These are special liners that can be placed inside containers to help regulate the temperature of the products being transported.
Packaging solutions related to cold chain may also include temperature-monitoring devices, such as thermometers or temperature data loggers, to ensure that the products are being maintained at the proper temperature throughout the supply chain.
Cold Chain Packaging for Fresh & Frozen Foods
Cold chain packaging solutions for fresh food are designed to maintain the temperature of perishable goods, such as produce, meat, dairy products, and other fresh foods, during transportation and storage.
This is important because fresh food can spoil quickly if it is not kept at the proper temperature, which can lead to food waste and potential health risks.
Likewise, with frozen foods, cold chain packaging can be used to maintain the temperature of frozen goods, such as frozen vegetables, meats, and other products, during transportation and storage.
Cold Chain Packaging for Pharmaceuticals
Cold chain packaging solutions for pharmaceuticals are designed to maintain the temperature of temperature-sensitive drugs and other pharmaceutical products during transportation and storage.
This is critical because many pharmaceutical products are sensitive to temperature changes and can be damaged or rendered ineffective if they are exposed to extreme temperatures or fluctuations in temperature.
Active, Passive, and Hybrid Cold Chain Systems Explained
Active systems
Active thermal systems do not use any phase change materials (PCM) such as water/ice or dry ice. These systems use mechanical or electric systems powered by an energy source, combined by thermostatic control to maintain proper product temperatures.
Passive Systems
Passive thermal systems commonly use insulation and phase change materials (PCM) such as water/ice or dry ice. These shipping systems are the most basic and cost effective.
Hybrid Systems
Hybrid thermal systems use a combination of PCMs such as water/ice or dry ice and thermostatic controls. These systems typically use PCMs as a source of energy, which is regulated by thermostatic control to maintain proper product temperatures.
Your Source for Cold Chain Packaging
Crown Packaging is a leading supplier of cold chain packaging including thermal liners, EPS coolers, and more.
Contact Crown for a cold chain packaging consultation to determine what type of solutions is best for your business.