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. 2025 Mar 16;14(6):1010.
doi: 10.3390/foods14061010.

Allocation of Strategic Positions for Storage of Meat Products Requiring Cold Chain

Fernando J Olier Herrera  1 , Carlos A Porto Berrio  2 , Germán Herrera-Vidal  3 , Wilson Adarme  4 , Rodrigo Linfati  5 , Gustavo Gatica  6 , Jairo R Coronado-Hernández  7
Affiliations

Allocation of Strategic Positions for Storage of Meat Products Requiring Cold Chain

Fernando J Olier Herrera et al. Foods. .

Abstract

The objective of this study is to optimize the allocation of storage positions in a cold storage facility for meat products, guaranteeing compliance with the cold chain and improving logistical efficiency. To this end, a mathematical optimization model was designed and applied that strategically assigns storage locations based on inventory turnover and product accessibility. Different configurations were evaluated based on space utilization criteria, access times, and operating costs. Based on the analyzed data, the findings indicate a significant improvement in storage efficiency, with utilization reaching 71.87% in U1, U2, U3, and UE units and 75% in C1 and C2 units. In addition, the new distribution minimized handling times and reduced the risk of product spoilage. Based on these findings, it is demonstrated that optimizing cold storage distribution not only improves inventory management and operational logistics but also contributes to system sustainability by reducing waste and costs associated with inefficient handling of perishable products.

Keywords: cold storage system; mathematical model; optimization; sausage products.

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Conflict of interest statement

The author, Fernando J. Olier Herrera, was an employee of Port of Cartagena Company Group. He participated as an independent researcher in the study. The role of the company does not represent any participation or interest in the project. The other authors declare that the research was carried out in the absence of commercial or financial relationships that could be interpreted as a possible conflict of interest. The author, Carlos A. Porto Berrio, was an employee of Tractocar S.A. Company. He participated as an independent researcher in the study. The role of the company does not represent any participation or interest in the project. The other authors declare that the research was carried out in the absence of commercial or financial relationships that could be interpreted as a possible conflict of interest. The remaining authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Dimensions of the cold storage and handling trolley.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Flowchart of the cold storage logistics chain.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Forecasts for hamburger (P1).
Figure 4
Figure 4
Forecasts for bologna (P2).
Figure 5
Figure 5
Forecasts for chicken pasta (P9).
Figure 6
Figure 6
Top view of the shelving system in cold room 1.
Figure 7
Figure 7
Rendering of the proposed shelving system.
Figure 8
Figure 8
Box-and-whisker and mean graphs.
Figure 9
Figure 9
Sensitivity analysis: demand variation and model assignments.
Figure 10
Figure 10
Comparative performance of MILP vs. ABC.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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