Table 3.

Wireless sensing technology used in cold chains: features, advantages, disadvantages and applications.

Technology type	Features	Advantages	Disadvantages	Applications	Illustration
Bluetooth	•Equipped with Bluetooth low-energy (BLE) technology	•Battery-powered •Low cost •Easy configuration via near-field communication (NFC)	•Lack of real-time visibility	•Shipping industry •Trucking industry
Radio frequency identification (RFID)	•Each tag has unique identification •Higher reading range than bar codes •Integrated memory	•Long battery life •Wireless transmission of data	•Shorter reading range compared to wireless sensor networks	•Transportation industry •Shipping industry
Wireless sensor networks (WSNs)	•Integrated memory •Multiple sensors per node	•Real-time information •High reading range	•High cost •Not as suitable for harsh conditions	•Shipping industry •Food industry

Sources [12,31].