TRANSPORTATION OF FISH- A- PRElEMINARY STUDY ON INSULATED CONTAINERS D THEIR EFFICACY IN lONG DISTANCE TRANSPORTATION

Abstract

Polythene lined thermocole insulated plywood boxes (secondhand
teachests) could be successfully used for the transport of
fresh iced fish. It was found that a minimum of 25 mm.
thermocole insulation was necessary during summer (April to
June) and 15 mm. during winter (November to March). By
using these insulated boxes the initial fish to ice ratio could
be brought down to 1 : 0.75 and still further to 1 : 0.5 at the
height of winter in January & February. These second-hand
teacliests are robust and are able to stand a minimum of five
trips· to and fro.
The moulded polystyrene boxes are not suited for long
distance transport.
Another redeeming feature m the entire operatiOn was,
there was practically no loss of fish due to spoilage in transit.
100% of the fish transported was in acceptable condition and
could be marketed. In the non~insulated boxes used by the
trade, the loss due to spoilage ranged from 10% to 25%,
and this could be completely eliminated by the use of these
insulated boxes.