Cold chain
German: Kühlkette Also known as: Kältekette
Uninterrupted cooling of a product from filling until it reaches the customer.
A cold chain exists when goods stay within a defined temperature range at every stage from production through storage and transport to sale. For drinks it is not always mandatory, but it is especially important for fresh juices, dairy drinks or unpasteurised products.
Beer and wine tolerate large temperature swings and heat poorly, which is why many traders store them cool and dark. Interruptions, such as long periods in the sun, can affect flavour and shelf life.
Related terms
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