There are many different types of ice. Ice cubes can vary greatly in shape and size, which in turn effects their longevity and optimal use. So what makes one ice type more suitable than the next? Every ice type is best suited to a particular purpose. Whilst all ice is meant to cool a product, their different features make one ice type more suitable for a certain purpose over another. Some ice is designed to cool beverages, whilst others are best suited to preservation and display purposes.
Half Cube Ice
Half cube ice is hard, clear ice cubes with a rhomboid shape and moderate melt rate. It is also known as half dice ice. It is suitable for blending drinks due to its ability to break down and create a smoother finish.
Full Cube Ice
Full cube ice is hard, clear ice cubes with a rhomboid shape and slow melt rate. It is also known as full dice ice. It is the most popular choice for large-volume applications like bagging and bulk cooling.
Large Cube Ice
Large cube ice is hard, clear ice cubes with a rhomboid shape and slow melt rate. It is larger than full dice ice. Large cube ice is popular in restaurants, fine dining, cocktail lounges, clubs, bars and is also used for bagging.
Gourmet Cube Ice
Gourmet cube ice is hard, clear ice cubes with a unique conical, cylindrical or bell shape. It has a slow melt rate. Gourmet ice, as the name suggests, is popular in restaurants, fine dining, cocktail lounges, clubs and bars.
Nugget and Chewblet Ice
Nugget or chewblet ice cubes are made from compressed flake ice. They have a fast melt rate and have a chewable texture. Nugget ice has a wide range of uses including blending, dispensing, cocktails, convenience stores and displaying fresh produce. It is also great for healthcare and foodservice in aged care, hospitals, cafes, bars and restaurants.
Crescent Ice
Crescent ice is a hard, clear unique crescent or moon shaped ice cube. It has a slow melt rate. Crescent ice is suited to use in restaurants, fine dining, cocktail lounges, clubs, and bars.
Flake Ice
Flake ice is shaved ice that is soft, thin shard-like pieces that are as soft as snow. It has a fast melt rate. Due to it’s soft nature flake ice has it’s uses in presentation and preservation of seafood, fresh fruits and vegetables and healthcare.
Ice is part of your product presentation and overall customer experience, with each type of ice having its own benefits. Whether you’re serving drinks or displaying food, finding the correct ice type for your application can provide a positive customer experience and save you money.
