Refrigeration is the process of lowering or maintaining the temperature of anything below that of its surroundings.
Major users of refrigeration include the food, chemical, pharmaceutical and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) industries.
Refrigeration is essential in the production of many perishable foods.
Over 40% of the world's food production undergoes some form of refrigeration prior to consumption.
Refrigeration is an essential step to reducing microbial growth that would otherwise result in food spoilage and possible increase in pathogens.
Refrigeration is also essential to maintain the nutritional content of food and to retain characteristics such as flavour, colour and texture.