Cold chain management during transport operations of perishable food in Mexico

Abstract

This paper aims to identify how cold chain management is provided throughout the transportation of perishable food, as well as the role of the experience and working conditions of drivers in perishable food transportation. It draws on survey data collected from Mexican perishable food carriers with headquarters in six major cities. The results show the characteristics of the vehicles used to transport perishable food by Mexican carriers and the cooling technologies utilized by vehicles carrying different types of meat. Further, the results elucidate the work experience and training of drivers handling perishable products and problems related to cold chain transportation as a major strength, while weaknesses were those reported with loading delays and lack of widespread wireless system implementation for temperature registration. It also provides one of the first pieces of information on Mexico’s foodstuff transportation system, with the aim of designing strategies for better cold chain tracking during transportation, as a key factor in food waste reduction. It is necessary to incorporate a greater number of participants from other geographical areas of the country in order to get a more detailed overview and to determine similarities and differences between regions. This study provides baseline information for the development of appropriate logistics strategies in cold chain management.