What is a thermo box?

Thermal packaging refers to impermeable, insulated containers that do not let heat or cold in or out. Many products that are sensitive to temperature must be transported and stored at certain temperatures. In this case, it is important to either ensure the cold chain is strictly maintained or to prevent products cooling down from the right temperature.

The cooling effect can be managed with the use of cooling elements. That’s why this type of packaging is mandatory in cold chain logistics. Products that are sensitive to temperature can thereby be cooled for up to 96 hours. This applies to foodstuffs as well as products from the life science sector and for medicines or pharmaceutical goods. Even frozen products can be mailed using an appropriately insulated box and accessories for cooling.

Which types of thermal packaging are available?

Our range of cardboard boxes and small boxes for the food trade and the transport of medicines that require refrigeration as specified by the relevant guidelines is divided into two basic categories:

1. Thermo boxes for mailing

2. Insulated boxes for the delivery of hot/cold products

Insulated boxes for delivery can also be sent in an outside box as a parcel if the dimensions are appropriate. However, thermal packaging specifically for mailing makes an impression with innovative material ideas that completely rethink the topic of thermal boxes for the food trade, pharmaceutical industry and life sciences. A distinction is made between the following materials:

Straw: similar insulating qualities to polystyrene and made entirely from renewable raw materials.

Hemp: same performance data as polystyrene, and the boxes are even suitable for mailing frozen products due to excellent insulation.

Thermo boxes and thermo box sets made of polystyrene combine the advantages of simple cardboard boxes with the cooling capacity of thermal packaging. The set includes cold packs.

How long does food stay warm or cold?

Thermal packaging used as insulated boxes for food is tested in accordance with EN 12571. The specifications relate to short term transport. The decrease in temperature for hot food must not exceed ten degrees Celsius over a three hour period. For cold food, this figure is seven degrees Celsius.

What do I need to observe when sending fresh food?

Perishable goods must maintain the cold chain throughout the transport route. Certain upper limits apply to the increase in temperature for different products. To send your parcel safely on its journey, you must

send the product out when it is still a few degrees below the maximum permissible limit;

pack it in a thermo box with cooling elements (temperature about –20 degrees Celsius);

distribute the cooling elements around the sides of the package and also place them on top;

place the products that are most susceptible to temperature changes in the centre;

prevent air from circulating within the package by using filling material;

label the parcel accordingly;

choose the fastest possible delivery method.

We will be happy to advise you about the details of the right thermal packaging or thermo box for food and medicines. Simply contact us.

BITO Thermal packaging