By: Doug Baker, Vice President, Industry Relations, FMI
Imagine a truck filled with fresh seafood leaving a dock in Florida, bound for a grocery store in Kansas. The driver, well aware of the Spring season’s rising heat, checks the refrigerated unit’s settings before departure. Every degree matters. If the temperature rises just slightly, the fish could lose freshness or, worse, spoil entirely before it reaches the seafood counter.
This is the reality of the cold supply chain complex, a temperature-controlled network responsible for keeping food safe and fresh as it moves from farms, fisheries and factories to grocery stores and restaurants. And as temperatures climb, so do the challenges.
The Cost of Keeping Food Fresh
Beyond battling seasonal temperatures, economic pressures are shaping how businesses approach supply chain logistics. Rising fuel prices, increased energy costs and supply chain disruptions are forcing companies to find more efficient ways to transport perishable goods. Refrigerated transport is expensive—every extra hour on the road adds to the cost and risks the quality of the food being delivered. To combat these challenges, companies are investing in better insulation, energy-efficient refrigeration technologies, and smarter routing strategies to minimize time spent in transit.
But temperature isn’t the only factor at play. Spring and summer also mark the beginning of fire season in the West and hurricane season along the Gulf and East Coasts. Natural disasters disrupt supply routes, sometimes forcing businesses to take longer, costlier detours. Cold supply chain managers must plan ahead, utilizing weather prediction models and contingency plans to ensure food reaches its destination without compromising safety or quality.
A Resilient Future
Despite challenges, FMI members work to ensure the cold supply chain remains steadfast, adapting to changes in climate and economy with innovation and resilience. To do this, supply chain professionals need to know the latest technology, discover pathways to efficiency and share industry best practices to make sure that no matter the season, fresh food continues to flow to tables across the country. So, the next time you enjoy fresh produce, seafood, or dairy, take a moment to appreciate the intricate, chilled journey and the food industry professionals behind the cold supply chain that brought it to you—even in the heat of summer.
And, if you are a food industry supply chain expert, mark your calendars with FMI’s Supply Chain Forum, September 15-17, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri, where the cold supply chain and more will be on the agenda.
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