The Global FoodBanking Network (GFN) and Emergent Cold Latin America have announced a partnership to support food banking organizations in 11 countries across Latin America. The agreement aims to expand storage capacity and improve cold chain infrastructure, helping food banks increase their ability to collect and distribute perishable foods. The partnership was formalized during the week of World Food Day.
Cold chain facilities play a key role in food banking operations, allowing organizations to safely receive and store refrigerated and frozen products while extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. However, establishing and maintaining this infrastructure requires substantial investment and technical expertise.
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Under the agreement, Emergent Cold Latin America will provide a range of support to GFN-affiliated food banks, including access to refrigerated and freezer space, technical visits to cold chain facilities, improvement projects for food bank warehouses, and the donation of second-hand equipment, such as forklifts and racks. Employees from Emergent Cold will also participate in volunteer activities at GFN member food banks.
The initiative will benefit food banks in Brazil, Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay.
Lisa Moon, president and CEO of The Global FoodBanking Network, said the collaboration will help food banks improve handling of perishable products. "The most common product people receive from food banks across our network is fresh fruits and vegetables, but this nutritious food is highly perishable and adds additional logistical challenges for food banks," she said. "Through this partnership with Emergent Cold, our food bank members in Latin America will be able to improve their cold chain operations and have expanded access to refrigerated and freezer spaces."
Neal Rider, CEO of Emergent Cold Latin America, said the company's goal is to reduce food waste in the region through better cold chain management. "We recognize the importance of the work carried out by food banks and are pleased to support this effort," he said.
Rafael Rocha, Commercial Vice President of Emergent Cold Latin America, noted that he has long been involved in food banking initiatives, including the establishment of the Panama Food Bank.
The Global FoodBanking Network currently supports community-led food banks in 51 countries. In 2023, GFN member food banks distributed food to more than 38 million people worldwide. The organization aims to reach more than 50 million people annually by 2030.
© EmergentCold LatAm For more information:
Emergent Cold Latin America
Tel: +55 47 3341 2500
Email: [email protected]
www.emergentcoldlatam.com
