Evaluation of Cold Chain Infrastructure and Temperature Management in Meat Distribution in Abuja

The cold chain is a critical component of meat safety and quality assurance, ensuring that temperature-sensitive products are maintained within safe ranges from slaughter to consumer purchase. In Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, rapid urban growth has outpaced the development of cold chain infrastructure, creating significant food safety risks. This study evaluates cold chain infrastructure and temperature management practices along the meat distribution chain in Abuja, covering abattoirs, wholesalers, retailers, and supermarkets. Temperature monitoring was conducted using calibrated data loggers placed in vehicles, storage rooms, and retail display units over a 30-day period. Infrastructure assessments covered cold room capacity, refrigerated vehicle availability, and temperature monitoring system usage. Meat samples were collected at the retail stage and analysed for total plate count and Salmonella to evaluate the food safety implications of temperature excursions. Results indicated that 55 percent of traditional retail outlets had no active refrigeration, and temperature excursions above 7 degrees Celsius were recorded in 68 percent of distribution vehicle journeys. Supermarket cold chains were significantly more compliant. Total plate count in traditional retail samples was twice that of supermarket samples. The study draws on recent literature on food cold chain management in African urban food systems. Findings provide quantitative evidence for targeted infrastructure investment and regulatory attention from the Federal Capital Territory Administration. Keywords: cold chain, meat distribution, temperature management, food safety, Abuja