The role of cold chain logistics in reducing postharvest losses

Abstract

Postharvest losses in perishable agricultural products remain a major constraint to international food security, economic growth, and farmer livelihoods. These losses often occur due to inadequate temperature control, poor storage, and inefficient transportation systems. Cold chain logistics—an integrated, temperature-controlled supply chain strategy—is recognized as a critical mechanism to maintain quality and increase shelf life, and significantly decreasing postharvest losses for fruits, vegetables, dairy, and other perishables. Empirical evidence shows that cold chain interventions such as refrigerated storage and transport dramatically lower spoilage rates, improve market access, and enhance income for producers. Despite its clear benefits, infrastructure, cost, and technical barriers still constrain cold chain deployment—particularly in developing contexts. This paper examines the components, impacts, challenges, and policy dimensions of cold chain logistics in reducing postharvest losses.