Cold chain — Food Safety Glossary

The unbroken sequence of refrigerated storage and transport that keeps cold food at or below 5 degrees C from supplier to consumer.

Frequently asked questions

What temperature should the cold chain maintain?

Cold potentially hazardous food should stay at or below 5 degrees C throughout transport, storage and display.

What is a break in the cold chain?

It is any period where cold food warms above 5 degrees C long enough to enter the danger zone, giving bacteria a chance to grow.

Who is responsible for maintaining the cold chain?

Every business that handles the food shares responsibility, including suppliers, transporters, receivers and retailers, at each stage of the supply chain.

How do I check the cold chain at delivery?

Probe or check the temperature of chilled goods at goods receipt, record it, and move the food into refrigeration quickly. Reconsider deliveries that arrive too warm.

Does the cold chain apply to frozen food too?

Yes. Frozen food should stay frozen hard throughout the chain, and chilled food should stay at or below 5 degrees C, both without significant warming.

Cold holding Temperature danger zone Goods receipt (receiving deliveries) Time/temperature control FIFO (First In, First Out) Food safety glossary Food safety guides
Home Features Free Tools Food Safety Australia Food Safety Glossary Blog Pricing About Contact