Modelling the inhibitors of cold supply chain using fuzzy interpretive structural modeling and fuzzy MICMAC analysis.

The Cold Supply Chain (CSC) is an integral part of the supply chain of perishable products. The aim of this research is to examine the inhibitors that have a major impact on the performance of CSC operations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This study provides a synthesis and suggests a hierarchical model among CSC inhibitors and their respective relevance. The hierarchical synthesis of twelve (12) primary CSC inhibitors is achieved through a comprehensive literature review and consultation with academics and CSC professionals. This study used semi-structured interviews, a fuzzy interpretive structural modeling (FISM) and a Fuzzy-MICMAC (FMICMAC) analysis to explore and establish the relationship between and among identified inhibitors. FISM is used to examine the interaction between inhibitors, while FMICMAC analysis is used to examine the nature of inhibitors on the basis of their dependence and driving power. The results of the FISM and FMICMAC analysis show the inter-relationships and relative dominance of identified inhibitors. The results show that some inhibitors are of high strategic importance due to their high driving power and low dependence. These inhibitors seek more management attention in order to improve their effectiveness. The result of a hierarchical model helps to understand the influence of a particular inhibitor on others. 'Higher capital and operating costs' occupy the highest level in the FISM model. The 'fragmented cold supply chains', 'lack of skilled labor', 'inadequate information system infrastructure' and 'lack of commitment by top level management' had strong driving power but weak dependence, which characterizes them as independent inhibitors. Management should be extra careful when dealing with these inhibitors as they influence the effects of other variables at the top of the FISM hierarchy in the overall management of the cold supply chain. The study also suggests a number of recommendations for addressing these inhibitors in cold supply chains operating in the UAE. With due attention and care for these inhibitors, the operation of the cold supply chains is likely to be even more successful.

Total fruit and vegetable consumption increases among consumers of frozen fruit and vegetables.

OBJECTIVE: Consumption of fruits and vegetables (FV) remains lower than recommended by the 2015 to 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The aim of this study was to assess average FV and frozen FV consumption and the effect on nutrient intakes across sex and 10 age categories. METHODS: Nutrient intake from foods and consumption of FV were estimated using combined data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011 to 2014 and the Food Pattern Equivalents Database 2011 to 2012. Means were compared across sex and between frozen FV consumers and nonconsumers. RESULTS: On average, consumers of frozen FV consumed significantly more total FV than did nonconsumers, but neither group met the recommended servings of FV per day. Intake of nutrients of concern-dietary fiber, potassium, calcium, and vitamin D-were significantly higher among consumers of frozen FV, whereas sodium intake was lower. Mean energy intake among children ages 1 to 18 y was significantly lower among those who ate frozen FV, but energy intake was not affected by consumption of frozen FV for adults. Mean body mass index was significantly lower among adult consumers of frozen FV. CONCLUSIONS: Results of this study suggested that when frozen FV are not consumed, other forms, such as fresh, canned, or dried, do not fill the FV gap. Government food programs and health professionals should encourage frozen FV as another way to increase FV consumption.

Toddler foods, children's foods: assessing sodium in packaged supermarket foods targeted at children.

OBJECTIVE: To critically examine child-oriented packaged food products sold in Canada for their sodium content, and to assess them light of intake recommendations, the current policy context and suggested targets. DESIGN: Baby/toddler foods (n 186) and child-oriented packaged foods (n 354) were coded for various attributes (including sodium). Summary statistics were created for sodium, then the children's food products were compared with the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) 'targets' for sodium in packaged foods. Also assessed were the products' per-serving sodium levels were assessed in light of the US Institute of Medicine's dietary reference intakes and Canada's Food Guide. SETTING: Calgary, Alberta, Canada. SUBJECTS: None. RESULTS: Twenty per cent of products could be classified as having high sodium levels. Certain sub-categories of food (i.e. toddler entrées, children's packaged lunches, soups and canned pastas) were problematic. Significantly, when scaled in according to Schedule M or viewed in light of the serving sizes on the Nutrition Facts table, the sodium level in various dry goods products generally fell within, and below, the Adequate Intake (AI)/Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) band for sodium. When scaled in accordance with the UK FSA targets, however, none of the (same) products met the targets. CONCLUSIONS: In light of AI/UL thresholds based on age and per-serving cut-offs, packaged foodstuffs for youngsters fare relatively well, with the exception of some problematic areas. 'Stealth sodium' and 'subtle sodium' are important considerations; so is use of the FSA's scaling method to evaluate sodium content, because it is highly sensitive to the difference between the reference amount and the actual real-world serving size for the product being considered.

Survey examines hospitals' use of convenience foods.

Results of a survey of 79 hospitals in New York City show the extent of use of convenience foods in relationship to size and type of control of the hospitals and various characteristics of their food service systems.