A Comprehensive Review of Risk Management and Quality Control Practices in Cold Chain Logistics : A case study on the Indian frozen seafood industry

Abstract

Cold chain logistics are necessary to keep products safe, and to ensure that products remain at their highest quality. In the fisheries sector many developing nations struggle to create an effective cold chain. To better understand how to manage risks and control the quality of products throughout the cold chain, this study will reflect on Abad Fisheries' approach to frozen seafood products in India. Some of the goals of this study were to identify the primary risks associated with operating a cold chain and to assess the existing processes for managing these risks through risk management systems or technology and documenting them in order to develop unique quality control systems for maintaining temperature stability. The research employed a qualitative case study approach using semi-structured interviews with five employees representing different departments and document reviews to gather information. The data was analyzed thematically to develop implementation patterns. The theoretical framework for the study focuses on HACCP and ISO standards, and risk management systems. Key components include the integrity of the cold chain, Critical Control Points, and temperature monitoring. The results of the study suggest that while HACCP and ISO systems exist, the level of implementation varies widely; the primary risk to the cold chain is temperature control; while storage operations have a solid foundation in the best practices for product storage, transportation has several deficiencies. Based on the results of this study, four different categories of risk have been identified: operational, technical, environmental, and human error. Although the quality control practices are sufficiently detailed, the technology capabilities will limit the ability to predict management activity. The degree of temperature control automation currently available has limitations and difficulties with reliability. There is a difference between compliance and operational excellence. Through its research, this study has established that International Standards have a context-specific application in Developing Economies. Technology-related challenges are not only related to the availability of capital; they also include infrastructure dependency and skills shortages. Informal networks help to bridge these formal gaps, but they can also create vulnerabilities to retention of talent. Some of the recommendations that will help improve the monitoring of transportation include investing in technology in phases, providing systematic training, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.