5 Major Advantages Of Cold Storage 

Cold storage is a crucial part of food production and supply chains as it is a proven way to prevent food spoilage and extend its shelf life. It also has a number of other benefits that you should know about. Keep reading to learn more about 5 major advantages of cold storage! 

• Keeping Perishable Goods Fresh 

When perishable goods are stored at cold temperatures, they keep their quality and extend their shelf life. In addition to this, cold storage helps to preserve fresh produce by reducing the activities of microorganisms that cause decay, bacteria, yeasts, and molds, just to name a few. Besides fruits and vegetables, other perishable items like meat and dairy products also need to be stored at low temperature. 

• Preventing Dehumidification 

While cold storages and freezers are a vital link in the food chain, high humidity can prove to be a significant issue in these environments. In addition to ice build-up, high humidity can also lead to mold growth on walls and floors. These issues can result in expensive repair bills and a loss of revenue.  

Specialized dehumidification equipment can help prevent these problems by removing the moisture that causes ice formation. Moreover, dehumidification can improve the air quality in these environments. This can keep the environment safe and healthy for employees, which is essential for maintaining product quality. 

• Preventing Damage 

The temperature of cold storage can protect delicate items like cameras, paintings, and plants. It also keeps wooden furniture safe from cracking when left in storage. To prevent these damages, companies ensure that cold storage warehouses are equipped with temperature control equipment and backup power systems.  

• Preventing Cross-Contamination 

Keeping food fresh and safe in cold storage units is essential to the health of your customers. This prevents spoilage, cross-contamination, and other foodborne illnesses. It also ensures that your products are delivered to your customers as fresh as possible. This helps reduce delays, fuel consumption, and other costs associated with transporting goods. 

When storing foods, keep them at 41oF or below to slow the growth of bacteria. Store refrigerated foods in descending order according to their minimum internal cooking temperature. Raw meat, seafood, and poultry should be stored below ready-to-eat foods. Never thaw frozen meats or fish at room temperature. 

• Preventing Waste 

A staggering one billion tons of food is wasted globally each year due to improper cold storage practices. It’s an issue that impacts food production and poverty, as well as climate change. Keeping fruits and vegetables separated can help reduce this waste. Fruits that produce ethylene gas, for example, are better kept away from those that are more sensitive to it.