Cold Chain Package Testing

Cold Chain Package Testing

Cold chain package testing is used to assess products that need to maintain certain thermal properties. This includes food, medications, chemicals, and film. The purpose of the cold chain is to preserve products and extend shelf life. Temperature validation testing involves placing thermocouples inside and outside the package and exposing it to extreme temperatures. Thermal mapping is done to determine if certain pallet positions are more vulnerable to temperature changes. The FDA mandates that any adverse occurrences related to products must be recorded. 

Frozen food shipment tests require the package to keep the temperature below a certain threshold. Testing pharmaceutical packages is more challenging. These packages must both cool and insulate the product. Vaccines must be kept in a narrow temperature range. Vaccine storage units must be NSF/ANSI 456 certified. Refrigerators, freezers, and combination units are all tested under this certification.