MSC Adopts Smart Containers for Guaranteed Freshness in Food Transportation

MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys have partnered with MSC to employ advanced smart containers ensuring that the freshest produce is made available on their ships promptly after being transported from the warehouse, as per a recent press announcement.

These smart containers are equipped with internet-connected sensors capable of tracking variables such as location, temperature, and humidity, with continuous remote supervision from a central customer service hub in Antwerp, Belgium.

Paolo Raia, Managing Director at MSC Procurement & Logistics, remarked, “Smart containers significantly enhance our ability to supply fresh food, particularly in regions where local sourcing is tough. For instance, in the Middle East, where local produce is scarce, and shipments from the warehouse to our ships might take weeks.”

“The ability to monitor and adjust the transport conditions like humidity and temperature in real-time is another significant benefit. It ensures we consistently deliver the freshest, top-quality food to our guests,” he added.

Troubles during road or sea transit prompt an immediate notification to the supplier, allowing quick resolutions and averting the need to send costly replacements, thus guaranteeing the delivery of fresh product, maintained the company.

The use of smart containers proves especially advantageous for the transportation of chilled and frozen items including meats, seafood, and dairy products.