CAS DataLoggers provided the cold chain validation solution for a large-scale beverage supplier recently. This producer sells drinks that contain small amounts of milk, so the product has to be shipped to vendors in refrigerated truck compartments.
In light of increasing Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) enforcement, the shipper needs to electronically document its product’s entire temperature history during transit to provide it to vendors. This includes data proving that it stayed within temperature specification (35° to 38°F) for the entire shipment duration.
Searching for an affordable solution, the manufacturer contacted several providers requesting a battery-powered device that could record for the whole shipment duration and could produce electronic proof of product quality.
For a reliable cold chain validation solution, CAS DataLoggers provided the supplier with three SwiTrace I-Plug IPST8 temperature data loggers. Ideal for use in shipping applications, these single-use solutions provide vendors with a complete electronic temperature history of food and beverage products. Their built-in USB interfaces make it easy to connect to a PC and download data.
When ready to ship, the driver places an I-Plug datalogger in the back of each truck in with the products, in among the crates and palettes. Placed one to a truck, the SwiTrace I-Plugs each measure temperature using their meter-long external sensor.
Over the duration of each trip, the loggers continually monitor the product’s temperature, configured by users to take an automatic reading once every 15 minutes. Readings are saved to a large 8,000-point encrypted memory. Operating on its one-year lithium battery, the data logger is ideal for extended trips to vendors.
Meanwhile, the I-Plug’s High and Low Alarm LEDs show if there has been a temperature excursion at any point in the trip.
When connected to a PC at the end of the haul, each SwiTrace data logger self-generates a full PDF temperature report to give to receivers. With this electronic report it’s simple to show vendors and inspectors proof of best practices and product quality.
Auto-PDF file generation means it’s easy for drivers to learn and follow this process. After the driver or vendor connects the I-Plug to a PC via USB, the vendor will then get proof of the shipper’s best practices in minutes. There’s no need to buy proprietary readers or software, and recalibration, servicing and battery replacements are not necessary.
Using SwiTrace’s free online Track & Trace portal, management can send and store data online with just a mouse-click. This service also offers a traceable Accuracy Certificate for full PQ documentation.
Using the Web Portal, it’s easy for users to enter the I-Plug’s Serial # and verify if it has been downloaded by the vendor. If the receiver has already selected the ‘Send to the Web’ feature while reading the I-Plug, the user will get instant access to the temperature report.
To learn more, visit www.DataLoggerInc.com or phone 800-956-4437.
