If you’ve ever had a cold drink at a restaurant or fast food chain, you’ve likely seen and heard the sound of flake ice dropping into your cup. Flake ice, also known as shaved ice, is a type of ice commonly used in commercial and industrial applications. It’s made by freezing water onto a drum or cylinder and then shaving it off to create small, irregularly shaped pieces.
One of the notable features of flake ice is its ability to cool quickly and maintain a consistent temperature. Unlike traditional ice cubes, which can take time to cool a drink and may melt quickly, flake ice cools rapidly and doesn’t dilute drinks as it melts.
Another unique quality of flake ice is its shape. The small pieces of ice can easily be packed and molded to fit into any space. This makes flake ice useful in a variety of industries beyond food and beverage service. For example, flake ice is used in the healthcare industry to keep medications and samples cool during transport.
Flake ice is also used extensively in the fishing industry. Fishermen use it to store freshly caught fish and keep them cool during transport to processing facilities. Flake ice’s ability to conform to uneven areas and its rapid cooling properties make it ideal for this application.
The production of flake ice requires specialized equipment. Machines that make flake ice are called ice makers and come in several sizes and configurations. Some machines produce ice continuously, while others operate on a cycle. Regardless of the type of machine, all flake ice makers work by freezing water onto a cylinder or drum and then shaving it off.
Flake ice makers are available in a range of capacities, from small countertop models to large industrial-sized machines that can produce thousands of pounds of ice per day. The type of machine needed depends on the specific application and required output.
In the food and beverage industry, flake ice is used in a variety of ways. In addition to cooling drinks, it is also used in food displays to keep items cool without the use of electricity. Flake ice is also a popular choice for seafood displays at grocery stores and restaurants.
One of the benefits of using flake ice in food and beverage service is its ability to reduce waste. When traditional ice cubes melt, they can take up space in a drink and water down the taste. This can lead to customers throwing away unfinished drinks. Flake ice, on the other hand, cools drinks quickly and doesn’t dilute them as it melts. This means that there is less waste and fewer resources needed to create new drinks.
Flake ice is an important tool in a variety of industries, from food and beverage service to healthcare and fishing. Its ability to cool quickly, conform to uneven spaces, and maintain a consistent temperature make it a useful resource for a variety of applications. Next time you hear the sound of flake ice dropping into your drink, remember the science behind it and appreciate the many ways this versatile ice can be used.
