subject: Do You Know How The Refrigerated Fleets Will Be Affected By The Food Safety And Modernization Act? [print this page] A March 26th Transport Topics article Food Safety Rules Likely to Affect Reefer Fleets, but Bigger Burden Will Hit Shippers, Experts Say written by Staff Reporter Timothy Cama is an outstanding eye opener for food manufacturers, shippers and most importantly refrigerated fleet operators. Mr. Cama did an excellent job of representing the impending influence that the FSMA will have on food handlers throughout the supply chain with more regulations due to be published this year.
The article states, When the regulations, which have not been even proposed yet, take effect, the burden probably will be on food producers, distributors and receivers to maintain safe practices, but those parties will bring new demands to food transporters As noted within this report, the transportation link in the supply chain is the most vulnerable when it comes to controlling the temperatures and product security, FDA probably would require that food shippers and receivers ensure that the temperature is kept constant during the time the food is on the truck.
Because of the remote nature of rolling assets, it has been nearly impossible for fleet operators to monitor operating status of vehicles and perishables in transit. However, technology is now playing a key role in providing management with a real time view of the condition of their investments throughout the process of distribution. The article further stated, What were seeing now with the greater adoption of real-time monitoring solutions. If theyre seeing temperature excursions, or somebodys opening a door where theyre not supposed to be opening a door, they can alert people and take proactive action.
The ability to remotely receive alarms and alerts regarding reefer performance is substantial in protecting food integrity with the ability for fleet operators to take immediate action. Alerts can also include security violations when the trailer doors are opened in unauthorized locations.
Technology, such as Cooltrax, provides remote management tools and real time information that allows for hands on supervision of goods in transit. Cooltrax reporting is also used as validation for HACCP Plan audits and regulatory inquiry. We encourage you to read Mr. Camas article and determine how you think the FSMA will affect your operation. The article is by subscription only. If you dont have a subscription to the article wed be happy to discuss it with you.
