Typically, cut flowers can remain fresh for 24-48 hours during transit, although this time frame can vary depending on the type of flower, the temperature and humidity during shipping, and the length of time that the flowers are in transit.

To ensure that the flowers remain fresh during transit, it is important to choose a reliable delivery service and to specify the preferred delivery date and time. The delivery service should take care to transport the flowers in a temperature-controlled environment and should handle the flowers carefully to minimize any damage.

Now, Flowers fall in the Category of “Perishable goods” which are goods that have a limited shelf life and are likely to deteriorate or become unfit for consumption if not stored or transported under appropriate conditions. Some common examples of perishable goods include food products such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, and seafood, as well as flowers, plants, and certain medications.

Perishable goods require careful handling and storage to maintain their quality, safety, and freshness. This typically involves controlling temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors, as well as using proper packaging to prevent spoilage, contamination, or damage.

The transportation of perishable goods also requires special attention to ensure that they are kept at the appropriate temperature and do not spoil during transit. This is often done through the use of refrigerated trucks, containers, or containers with temperature-controlled systems.

Are Perishable Goods – Dangerous goods?

Perishable goods are not necessarily dangerous goods, but some types of perishable goods can pose a risk to health and safety if not handled or transported properly. For example, perishable goods that are contaminated with harmful bacteria or viruses can pose a food safety risk, while perishable goods that are transported at high temperatures can pose a risk to public health.

However, perishable goods are not considered dangerous goods under the United Nations classification system for hazardous materials. Dangerous goods are materials that pose a significant risk to health, safety, or the environment and are subject to strict regulations for transportation, handling, and storage.

Examples of dangerous goods include explosives, flammable liquids and gases, toxic and infectious substances, and radioactive materials. Perishable goods are not typically classified as dangerous goods unless they meet the criteria for classification as such.

It is important to follow proper handling and transportation procedures for perishable goods to ensure their safety and freshness, and to comply with any applicable regulations or guidelines. If you have any concerns about the handling or transportation of perishable goods, it is best to consult with a professional in the field.

Few real-life examples of the destruction of perishable goods due to poor logistics:

  • The 2018 romaine lettuce E. coli outbreak: In 2018, a multi-state E. coli outbreak was traced back to contaminated romaine lettuce grown in Yuma, Arizona. The lettuce was transported to multiple states and was eventually linked to the outbreak. Poor logistics management, including a lack of effective traceability systems and inadequate temperature control during transportation, was identified as a contributing factor in the spread of the contamination.
  • The 2011 Thailand flooding: In 2011, Thailand experienced severe flooding that affected many of its central and northern provinces. The flooding resulted in the destruction of crops and food storage facilities, including perishable goods such as fruits, vegetables, and seafood. The destruction of these goods was due in part to poor logistics management, including a lack of proper storage facilities and inadequate transportation infrastructure.
  • The 2013 Nairobi mall attack: In 2013, a terrorist attack at the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, resulted in the destruction of perishable goods stored in the mall’s grocery store. The attack caused widespread damage to the store and its contents, including perishable goods such as dairy products, fruits, and vegetables, due to a lack of effective emergency response planning and logistics management.

These are just a few examples of real-life scenarios in which poor logistics management has resulted in the destruction of perishable goods. Effective logistics management is critical in ensuring that perishable goods are stored, transported, and handled properly to minimize the risk of spoilage or safety issues.

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