6. Interfaces

The loading/unloading stages have often been weak links in the cold chain.

The regulations stipulate that these operations must be carried out as quickly as possible, and without causing temperatures to rise which could be detrimental to food quality. They tolerate temperature rises above set limits on the surface of foodstuffs, for short periods limited to handling operations.

Many operators take the issue of interfaces very seriously, investing considerable resources either in fully air-conditioning loading/unloading docks, or even bursting platforms, or in equipment to maintain product temperature in the absence of air-conditioning (small containers equipped with cold production devices).