ABSTRACT
The losses in the perishable foods are huge, and when appropriate postharvest handling practices are not followed, they can reach more than 50%. An unbroken cold chain and the availability of proper refrigeration are essential to reduce these losses and maintain produce quality during storage and distribution. Cold chain refers to the temperature management of perishable products from the farm until it reaches the final consumer. Maintaining safe low temperatures along the food supply chain slows down physiological activities and hence decelerates deterioration processes in the produce. Apart from slowing quality and nutritional degradation, the low temperatures also impede the growth of harmful microorganisms. Cold chain development depends upon the consumer demand in a specific location as well as access to investment funds and policy regulations. This chapter focuses on the critical role of cold chain management to reduce losses and maintain quality in perishables and the current status of the cold chain in developing countries.
