Ultracongelation and IoT to Improve Energy Efficiency and Working Conditions in the Cold Chain of a Food MSME: A Mixed-Methods Study with a Gender Perspective

Abstract

Thermal efficiency in the cold chain is a critical challenge for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the food sector, especially in contexts where temperature variability affects product quality, increases waste, and raises energy consumption. This study evaluated the impact of implementing Industry 4.0 technologies, specifically a deep-freezing system and an IoT (Internet of Things) monitoring platform, at PASTELART SAS, commercially known as Pastel de Oro, a Colombian food MSME whose operational workforce is composed of 70% women. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, integrating technical-operational analysis, statistical modeling, and qualitative assessment of labor perceptions.

The results show substantial improvements in the thermal performance of the cold system, including a reduction in freezing time, greater temperature stability in the cold room, and a 67% reduction in waste. Energy consumption per unit also decreased significantly, which was confirmed through an interrupted time series model that showed an immediate change of –39.43 COP per unit after the intervention (R² = 0.93). Likewise, interviews revealed perceived improvements in workload, thermal comfort, and safety, especially among women directly exposed to high temperatures.

The findings demonstrate that the combination of deep freezing and IoT not only optimizes energy and operational performance but also enhances labor well-being in highly feminized contexts. This study provides applied evidence of the potential of Industry 4.0 technologies to strengthen productive and social sustainability in food MSMEs.