Model development and assessment for temperature processing technologies used in cold chain industries

Abstract

ABSTRACT The objective of the current work is to explore the most appropriate temperature processing technologies (TPTs) and make their assessment based on the desired performance characteristics (assessment criteria) in the context of Indian cold chain (CC) industries. The assessment criteria and explored TPTs have been framed into a model for their theoretical and empirical assessment. The developed model has been analysed using an integrated approach based on Best Worst Method (BWM) and Evaluation Based on the Distance from Average Solution (EDAS) methods. The key findings of the work show that the criteria ‘capability to achieve desired temperature’ and ‘Compatibility with environmental standards’ play a crucial role in selecting a TPT for CC applications. Meanwhile, the refrigeration technologies such as ‘solar energy-driven tri-generation refrigeration system’ and ‘passive cold devices as refrigeration technologies’ can be adopted to achieve the optimum performance level of CC. To check the robustness of the results, sensitivity analysis has been performed. In addition, the study offers sound theoretical and managerial implications enriching the literature content into the subject domain and suggesting the most suitable TPT for temperature maintenance in CC, which might help the management to make decisions towards organisational growth.