PMMI ProSource – Start Your Search
Check out our packaging and processing solutions finder, PMMI ProSource.

Manufacturers bear ultimate cold-chain responsibility

Technological advances made during the past 10 years bode well for temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products, but a complex distribution chain can still be something of a “black hole.”

Pw 4677 Thermometer

Compared to time and temperature, humidity is often overlooked as a factor in cold chain shipments.

• Before agreeing to long-term contracts, a military supply center now requires manufacturers to include validated packaging and temperature monitoring process details in their shipments (see sidebar story below).
• Extended stability studies are desirable for manufacturers shipping pharmaceutical and biologic products through cold chain distribution.

These were among the nuggets gleaned from the 7th Cold Chain Distribution for Pharmaceuticals conference Sept. 21-23 in Philadelphia. It was made clear by several speakers at the event that no matter how many companies handle your product through the pharmaceutical distribution chain, if the product is not effective—perhaps due to time and/or temperature excursions—the ultimate responsibility that a safe, effective medication reaches a patient rests with the manufacturer. One speaker said the FDA would like manufacturers to monitor distributors and take greater responsibility for the entire supply chain.

New e-book on Flexible Packaging
In this e-book, you’ll learn key considerations for vertical and horizontal f/f/s and how to choose between premade bags and an f/f/s system. Plus, discover the pitfalls to avoid on bagging machinery projects.
download
New e-book on Flexible Packaging
Connected Workforce Report
Discover how connected workforce technologies and automation can bridge the skills gap in our latest report. Explore actionable insights and innovative solutions.
Read More
Connected Workforce Report