Research shows that an estimated 30% of global food production perishes in post-harvest losses. Rising temperatures, population growth and increased urbanization are magnifying the need for adequate cooling. A recent concept paper by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH examines the barriers and recommendations for food cold chains of fruit and vegetables, dairy, meat, and fish in developing countries.
The study identifies a comprehensive approach involving a broad range of stakeholders pivotal in ensuring the success of a cold chain; shortcomings at any level may jeopardize a cold chains' viability as a whole. Capacity building and training, access to a reliable and affordable energy supply, policy and regulation and improved access to financing are the key building blocks for a functioning cold chain.
The study was carried out by Proklima (abre en una nueva ventana) and HERA (Poverty-oriented Basic Energy Services) of GIZ, and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ (abre en una nueva ventana)). Further details of the study with projects in various developing countries can be downloaded here (abre en una nueva ventana).