Since the introduction of refrigeration technology in the 1920s, Japan has made significant strides in cold chain logistics. The 1950s saw a surge in demand with the rise of the prefabricated food market. By 1964, the Japanese government implemented the “Cold Chain Plan,” ushering in a new era of low-temperature distribution. Between 1950 and 1970, Japan’s cold storage capacity grew at an average rate of 140,000 tons per year, accelerating to 410,000 tons annually during the 1970s. By 1980, total capacity had reached 7.54 million tons, underlining the rapid development of the industry.
From 2000 onward, Japan’s cold chain logistics entered a high-quality development phase. According to the Global Cold Chain Alliance, Japan’s cold storage capacity reached 39.26 million cubic meters in 2020, ranking 10th globally with a per capita capacity of 0.339 cubic meters. With 95% of agricultural products transported under refrigeration and a spoilage rate below 5%, Japan has established a robust cold chain system that spans from production to consumption.
Key Factors Behind Japan’s Cold Chain Success
Japan’s cold chain logistics excels in three key areas: advanced cold chain technology, refined cold storage management, and widespread logistics informatization.
1. Advanced Cold Chain Technology
Cold chain logistics rely heavily on cutting-edge freezing and packaging technologies:
- Transportation and Packaging: Japanese companies use refrigerated trucks and insulated vehicles tailored for different types of goods. Refrigerated trucks feature insulated racks and cooling systems to maintain precise temperatures, with real-time monitoring via onboard recorders. Insulated vehicles, on the other hand, rely solely on specially constructed bodies to maintain low temperatures without mechanical cooling.
- Sustainable Practices: Post-2020, Japan adopted ammonia and ammonia-CO2 refrigeration systems to phase out harmful refrigerants. Additionally, advanced packaging materials are used to prevent damage during transport, including protective packaging for delicate fruits like cherries and strawberries. Japan also employs reusable containers to boost transport efficiency and reduce costs.
2. Refined Cold Storage Management
Japan’s cold storage facilities are highly specialized, classified into seven levels (C3 to F4) based on temperature and product requirements. Over 85% of facilities are F-level (-20°C and below), with the majority being F1 (-20°C to -10°C).
- Efficient Use of Space: Due to limited land availability, Japanese cold storage facilities are typically multi-level, with customized temperature zones based on client needs.
- Streamlined Operations: Automated storage and retrieval systems enhance efficiency, while seamless cold chain management ensures no temperature interruptions during loading and unloading.
3. Logistics Informatization
Japan has heavily invested in logistics informatization to improve efficiency and oversight.
- Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) systems streamline information processing, enhancing order accuracy and accelerating transaction flows.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Vehicles equipped with GPS and communication devices allow for optimized routing and detailed tracking of deliveries, ensuring high levels of accountability and efficiency.
Conclusion
Japan’s thriving prefabricated food industry owes much of its success to the country’s advanced cold chain logistics. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, refined management practices, and robust informatization, Japan has developed a comprehensive cold chain system. As the demand for ready-to-eat meals continues to grow, Japan’s cold chain expertise offers valuable lessons for other markets.
https://www.jpfood.jp/zh-cn/industry-news/2024/11/05.html
Post time: Nov-18-2024