Blog Post
The need for change in cold chain and pharmaceutical solutions
Adapt Ideations • Jul 22, 2019
The pharmaceutical industry itself is estimated to be worth 13.4 billion in 2017.
The pharmaceutical industry itself is estimated to be worth 13.4 billion in 2017 according to the ‘Biopharma Cold Chain Sourcebook’ written by Pharmaceutical Commerce. This alone doesn’t consider the worth of other cold chain industries. The logistics of cold chain and pharmaceutical industries are meticulous. A single shipment that has had a temperature excursion as it’s called, when the shipment or consignment is believed to have left the safe temperature zone, could be worth thousands. Upon the temperature excursion the shipment then needs to be investigated to decide whether the food or pharmaceuticals are still safe to either use or consume. This points to the notion that IoT has become a prime focus in the food and pharmaceutical industry.
One may ask isn’t the process simple for transport. Within the industry there are three defining factors that affect the industry. This is efficiency, flexibility, and precision. These three defining elements that affect the cold chain and pharmaceutical industry are ever changing and heavily effect the industry. The industry has primarily been affected by the supply chain being controlled manually allowing for human error. For example, the shipment being checked at each point of contact whether leaving the warehouse, while being in transit and so forth affecting the efficiency.
The IoT (internet of things) industry is however, changing this with the interconnection of data amongst several points. Simple human error can have a significant impact upon the industry leading to a large amount of wastage. This could be simply from placing unnecessary shipments in a temperature-controlled room, to shipping a consignment later than expected exposing the items to temperatures that exceed the temperature range.
With the cold chain and pharmaceuticals being largely controlled manually, it does not allow for a great deal of flexibility. However, with IoT coming into play, many elements can be controlled from a device easily whether it is monitoring the shipments location, the temperature, to any suspected tamper with the shipment while in transit.
You can easily see why there needs to be a change in cold chain and pharmaceutical solutions. IoT could essentially be the holy grail to the cold chain and pharmaceutical industry. Just think about how it could be a game changer for your business.
All in all, this points to one solution, a smarter cold chain! As explained, this involves various monitoring devices or sensors to attain real-time data regarding temperature and location leading to a rapid solution and action to any unexpected elements involving the shipments. IoT itself can lead to much greater insight about the supply chain of the cold chain and pharmaceutical industry allowing for more precise, automated, consistent, reliable and up to date information. Let’s face the facts, it’s reported that 1/3 of the food grown simply for human consumption in fact never reaches the consumer due to wastage according to a report conducted by the United Nations in 2016. This equates to a whopping $940 billon in wastage each year. Imagine if we could eliminate this waste and use the food to feed those in need.
So how does blockchain exactly all fit into this? Blockchain is an element of IoT that is changing the nature of supply chain and logistics. Blockchain allows a number of entities involved in the supply chain to have access to certain data which, is logged at different points in the supply chain based on several elements, including location, time and shipment specifics. This highlights that with the right technology and software, cold chain partners can be informed about the shipment and easily rectify any issues.
Get in contact with us today to find out more about our solutions to help solve your supply chain issues.
Powerful and reliable, asset tracking and monitoring solutions.
Innovative monitoring solutions for high-value & temperature-sensitive assets.
Share Our Post.
Awards & Recognition
Best Temperature Monitoring Solution Provider
Awarded by India Biologics & Vaccines Outstanding Industry Awards 2022
Adapt Ideations Recognised As A Supply Chain Leader
by Alcott Global on Supplify's Supply Chain Tech Map 2.0
Related Articles.
Temperature-controlled logistics is a crucial aspect of global supply chains, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry. Maintaining the correct temperature during transportation is not just a logistical issue but also a critical factor in ensuring the safety and efficacy of life-saving vaccines and other temperature-sensitive products. As the demand for temperature-sensitive products like vaccines and biologics continues to surge, ensuring their safe transportation is paramount. Any deviation in temperature during transit can compromise the efficacy of these products, leading to significant financial losses and potential health risks. This blog delves into the evolution of temperature-controlled logistics, critical challenges faced in this sector, and groundbreaking innovations that address these challenges. With a focus on real-time monitoring through IoT solutions, we aim to showcase the advancements that contribute to the efficiency and compliance of global pharmaceutical supply chains. Evolution of Temperature-Controlled Logistics Temperature control has undergone a remarkable transformation in the last two decades. Stringent global regulations, customer demand for new temperature ranges, emerging markets with extreme temperatures, and the growing value of drugs like biologics have been essential driving forces. These factors have spurred the evolution of temperature-controlled logistics to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. The landscape of temperature-controlled logistics is evolving, thanks to technological advancements. Trends include the growing availability of prequalified shippers simplifying the validation process, sophisticated supply chain services, a rising interest in reusable packaging, and advances in temperature-monitoring technology. These innovations contribute to the industry's ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic environment. Temperature-controlled logistics involves managing the flow of products through a cold chain. Divided into food and pharmaceutical sectors, the global market size of cold chain logistics is projected to grow significantly. From USD 242.39 billion in 2021 to USD 647.47 billion by 2028, exhibiting a CAGR of 15.1%, the industry is expanding rapidly, reflecting its critical role in modern commerce. 3 Key Challenges in Temperature-Controlled Logistics Compliance Issues Stringent Regulatory Standards: Global temperature-controlled logistics operates within a framework of strict regulations set by health and safety authorities. Meeting diverse regulatory requirements across international borders poses a significant challenge for companies in this sector. Documentation & Reporting: Compliance involves meticulous documentation and reporting of temperature-sensitive shipments. Keeping up with the evolving documentation standards requires streamlined processes and robust systems. Validation & Qualification: Ensuring the validation and qualification of equipment and processes according to regulatory standards is an ongoing challenge. The need for continuous validation adds complexity and time constraints to logistics operations. Risks of Temperature Deviations Product Integrity: Temperature-sensitive products, especially pharmaceuticals and biologics, are highly susceptible to temperature deviations. Even brief exposure to temperature breaches during transit can compromise the integrity and efficacy of these products. Financial Implications: Temperature deviations can lead to significant financial losses for companies. Replacing or disposing of compromised products and potential legal repercussions contribute to financial challenges. Supply Chain Disruptions: Temperature deviations can disrupt the entire supply chain, leading to delays in product availability. This not only affects businesses but can have critical implications for healthcare providers and patients relying on timely access to medications. Security & Theft Concerns Value of Cargo: Temperature-sensitive cargo, such as pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and high-value perishable goods, can become a target for theft. The significant value of these products heightens security concerns throughout the supply chain. Vulnerability During Transit: The vulnerability of cargo during transit, particularly in unsecured areas, poses a constant risk. The potential for theft during transportation adds complexity to securing temperature-controlled shipments. Need for Tracking & Monitoring: Ensuring the security of temperature-sensitive cargo requires robust tracking and monitoring systems. Integrating security features, such as real-time location tracking and tamper-evident technologies, is essential to mitigate theft risks. In navigating the intricate landscape of temperature-controlled logistics, companies must address these multifaceted challenges to uphold compliance, safeguard product integrity, and ensure the security of valuable shipments. Innovative solutions, such as advanced monitoring technologies and comprehensive security measures, are crucial in overcoming these challenges and fostering a resilient and efficient supply chain.
Explore the transformative power of end-to-end visibility in last-mile delivery. Embrace efficiency, security, and sustainability with Adapt Ideations' IoT solutions.
Navigate global supply chain compliance challenges with Adapt Ideations' IoT enabled KELVIN and PIXEL devices. Real-time visibility for efficient, secure, and sustainable logistics.
Explore the imperative of securing global pharmaceutical supply chains. Discover real-time track and trace solutions with Adapt Ideations for enhanced efficiency and compliance.
Unlock the secrets of global vaccine distribution! From US triumphs to South American innovations. Explore game-changing solutions for pharmaceutical challenges.
Explore sustainable cold chain logistics with real-time monitoring solutions. Discover Adapt Ideations' IoT devices for efficient, eco-friendly, and compliant supply chains.
Our Guides.
Cold Chain Risk Management with our comprehensive guide. Learn to safeguard temperature-sensitive products and streamline your supply chain.
Master cold chain compliance with our guide. Ensure seamless logistics in the US, optimizing temperature control for perishable goods' safety.
Unlock & master FDA perishable compliance effortlessly! Learn with the ultimate guide to easy traceability. Achieve end-to-end visibility! Read and act now.
Sign up to our monthly newsletter!
H.No.1-89/G/36, 3rd Floor, Plot No.36, Mindspace, Shilpi Valley, Madhapur, Hyderabad – 500081, India