kølekæder

Kølekæder is the Danish term for the cold chain, the system that ensures temperature-sensitive goods are kept within defined temperature ranges from production to consumption. It covers planning, handling, storage, transport and information management to preserve safety, quality and efficacy.

The cold chain includes refrigerated transport (trucks, rail, ships, aircraft with active or passive cooling), refrigerated warehouses, appropriate packaging, controlled loading and unloading, and robust monitoring and traceability systems. Temperature data loggers, sensors and digital platforms enable real-time visibility and rapid response to deviations.

Common applications are perishable foods such as meat, dairy, fruit and seafood, frozen products, and temperature-sensitive medicines and vaccines. Temperature ranges vary by product; typical examples include 2–8°C for chilled foods and -18°C (or colder) for frozen goods.

Regulatory and industry frameworks guide kølekæder, with food safety regimes such as HACCP and ISO 22000, good distribution practices for pharmaceuticals (GDP), and national authorities providing guidelines and inspections.

Digitalization, barcodes and, increasingly, blockchain support traceability and accountability. Challenges include maintaining uniform temperature during handling, power outages, equipment failures, excursions, and capacity constraints in dense urban areas. Effective management relies on contingency planning, redundant power and equipment, and trained staff.