2021 is the UN-designated International Year of Fruits and Vegetables, in recognition of the important role of fruits and vegetables in human nutrition, food security and health as well as in achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Every year, millions of tons of these perishable items are transported across the globe from farm to table, often under refrigerated transportation conditions in reefers, undertaking long ocean journeys. Upon arrival at their destination, many fruits and vegetables are then refrigerated to maintain their freshness.

The global cold supply chain plays a vital role in the transportation and storage of perishable items. 

IYFV 2021 has some important objectives including:

• raising awareness of the nutritional value and health benefits of fruit and vegetable consumption
• promoting diversified and balanced diets and lifestyles through their consumption
• reducing losses and wastes in fruits and vegetables systems
• sharing best practice on a host of issues from sustainable food systems to improved storage, transportation and recycling, the integration of smallholders into larger supply chains and strengthening the capacity of developing countries to adopt technology to combat loss and waste 

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