NEWS
INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
SA ’ s burgeoning aquaculture industry A
growing market navigating complex risks and challenges .
South Africa ' s aquaculture industry is still in its infancy but is growing steadily , focusing on the cultivation of marine species such as mussels , abalone , prawns , and oysters , as well as freshwater species including catfish , trout , crocodiles , and tilapia . As the industry expands , the importance of an efficient cold chain becomes increasingly apparent .
Given the country ’ s 6.44kg baseline per capita fish and seafood consumption , 424 627 tonnes of fish and seafood will be needed to satisfy South Africa ’ s projected population of 65 million in 2030 . This demand is 42 796 tonnes higher than the current baseline of 381 831 tonnes . To meet this demand , South African aquaculture production needs to grow by 18 % a year between 2020 and 2030 , a significant increase from its current 6.4 % growth rate [ 1 ].
“ As the aquaculture industry sits on the cusp of massive growth and development , it needs to avoid being blindsided by the growing risks in the market that could have a profound effect on its livelihood and sustainability . With consumers becoming more vocal about sustainability and environmentally friendly practices , companies in this space not only have to contend with traditional business challenges and risks but also have to navigate the complexities of the cold chain to ensure product quality and safety ,” says Harold Bond , senior client manager at Aon South Africa .
KEY RISKS FACING SA ' S AQUACULTURE INDUSTRY , INCLUDING COLD CHAIN CONSIDERATIONS
The cold chain is crucial for maintaining the safety and quality of aquaculture products . Improper handling and temperature control during storage and transportation can lead to contamination and spoilage . Biological hazards , including bacteria and viruses , can proliferate if the cold chain is disrupted , posing risks to consumer health .
Aquaculture can impact the environment , and the cold chain plays a role in mitigating these effects . Efficient cold storage and transportation can reduce waste and spoilage , contributing to more sustainable practices by minimising the need for overproduction and wasteful practices .
The aquaculture industry often faces issues related to labor conditions and transparency . Ensuring that the cold chain is managed effectively can help maintain product quality and reduce the risk of losses , which in turn can support fair labor practices by ensuring more predictable and stable revenues .
Complex supply chains and the need for certifications are made more challenging by the cold chain requirements . Certifications for sustainable seafood often require stringent documentation and traceability throughout the cold chain to verify that products meet environmental and social standards .
Addressing sustainability and social issues often involves improving cold chain practices . Efficient cold chain management can reduce environmental impact by lowering the carbon footprint associated with transport and storage .
Small-scale farmers may struggle with the costs and complexity of maintaining an effective cold chain . Investment in cold chain infrastructure can be a barrier but is essential for accessing highervalue markets and meeting certification standards .
“ It is critical for operators within the aquaculture market to investigate risk management measures that address their needs and to find suitable risk transfer solutions where necessary . The mortality of livestock is a good case in point , where disease and accidents could expose the business to profound financial loss . Proper cold chain management can mitigate risks associated with stock in transit , and specified perils such as lightning and severe storms can wreak havoc on an aquaculture farm ,” says Bond .
The cold chain is a vital component in the successful expansion and sustainability of South Africa ’ s aquaculture industry . As the sector continues to grow , ensuring the integrity of the cold chain will be essential for maintaining product quality , meeting consumer expectations , and achieving longterm sustainability . CLA
REFERENCE :
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Efficient cold storage and transportation can reduce waste and spoilage , contributing to more sustainable practices .
4 www . coldlinkafrica . co . za COLD LINK AFRICA • November / December 2024