Ice is a crucial element in many drinks and dishes, but not all ice is created equal. Different types of ice have different shapes, sizes, and uses. In the blog below, we will explore seven different types of ice and their unique characteristics and applications.
7 Types of Ice and Their Applications
Regular Cube
Regular cubes (also known as large cubes) are one of the most common types of ice found in drinks. They are typically made in large, square molds and have a solid, dense texture. Regular cubes are slow-melting, making them perfect for beverages that need to stay cold without getting watered down too quickly.
- Size: 1 1/8" x 1 1/8" x 7/8"
- Uses: Regular cubes are commonly used in cocktails, soft drinks, and iced coffee.
Full Cube
Full ice cubes (also known as dice ice or square cubes) offer a uniform and clean appearance. Owing to their larger size and slower melting rate, full ice cubes provide the most cooling effect while lowering ice consumption costs. These work best for soft drinks and mixed drinks, as well as for bagging and dispensing ice. They are frequently found in caterers, restaurants, bars, and convenience stores.
- Size: 7/8" x 7/8" x 7/8"
- Uses: Full cubes are often used in high-end bars and restaurants for premium cocktails and spirits.
Half Cube
As the name suggests, half cubes are regular cubes that have been cut in half. They are smaller and more easily stackable than regular cubes, making them ideal for filling up a glass without taking up too much space. They are suitable for smoothie shops and for soft drinks, mixed drinks, and frozen cocktails because they provide maximum cooling without rapidly diluting drinks.
- Size: 7/8" x 7/8" x 3/8"
- Uses: Half cubes are commonly used in soft drinks, iced tea, and blended drinks like smoothies and slushies.
Nugget Ice
Nugget ice, also known as tubular nugget ice, pebble ice, pellet ice, or “sonic” ice; is small, soft, and chewy in texture. It is made by freezing water in layers and then shaving it into small pieces.
- Size: 3/8"-1/2" in length and width, Bite-Sized
- Uses: Nugget ice is commonly used in fountain drinks, smoothies, and blended drinks.
Flake Ice
Flake ice has a soft, snowy texture and is ideal for keeping food cold and fresh without damaging it. Flake ice is also popular for its ability to mold and conform to the shape of food products. It is also often used for medical compresses or in blended drinks.
- Size: Varies
- Uses: Flake ice is commonly used in seafood displays, salad bars, and for keeping produce fresh.
Crescent Ice
Crescent has a unique shape, it can move in a glass without packing together. It shapes itself to the sides of a glass, creating exceptional liquid displacement and easy flow as a customer enjoys their beverage.
- Size: 1 1/2" x 1 1/8" x 1/2"
- Uses: Crescent ice is commonly used in self-serve ice machines, water dispensers, and ice bins
Gourmet Ice
Gourmet ice, also known as "top-hat" or octagon-shaped ice; is a large, cylindrical ice cube with a hollowed-out center. They are crystal clear and elegant without watering down drinks.
- Size: 1 3/8" x 1 3/8" or 1 1/4" x 1 1/8" x 7/8" depending on shape
- Uses: Gourmet ice is commonly used in high-end bars and restaurants for premium cocktails and spirits.
Comparison Table of Different Types of Ice
|
Ice Type |
Features |
Application |
Setting |
Melt Rate |
Benefits |
|
Regular Cube |
Solid Build ~ 100% Ice-to-water Ratio |
Large-Volume Application |
Commercial Settings |
Slow |
Maximum Cooling Reduce ice consumption |
|
Full Cube |
Solid Build ~ 100% Ice-to-water Ratio |
Bagging Dispensing Soft Drinks Mixed Drinks |
Restaurant Bar Convenience Store Catering |
Slow |
Uniform Shape Maximum Cooling Reduce ice consumption |
|
Half Cube |
Convenience Size Solid Build ~ 100% Ice-to-water Ratio |
Bagging Self-service Dispensing Drinks |
Universally Applicable Restaurants Bars Convenience Stores |
Moderate |
Versatile Maximum Cooling |
|
Nugget Ice |
Soft and easy to chew |
Chewing Soft Drinks Cold Drinks Blended Drinks Frozen Drinks |
Healthcare Restaurants Bars Convenience Stores |
Quick |
Absorb the flavors of the drink Chewable Blends well |
|
Flake Ice |
Soft Snow-like 73% Ice-to-water Ratio |
Market Display Applications Buffet Lines Medical Compresses |
Grocery Stores Fish Markets Buffets Healthcare |
Quick |
Gentle on produce Cool inquiries without too much pressure |
|
Crescent Ice |
Distinct half Moon shape Solid Build |
Bagging Dispensing Soft Drinks Mixed Drinks |
Restaurant Bar Convenience Store Catering |
Slow |
Won’t pack together Uniformly fills glass Create exceptional liquid displacement |
|
Gourmet Ice |
Unique octagonal or cylindrical shape Solid build ~ 100% Ice-to-water Ratio |
Serving in high-end liquors and upscale drinks |
Upscale Restaurants Bars Banquet Halls |
Slow |
Effectively Cool Drinks |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the types of ice you choose can greatly impact the taste and presentation of your drink or dish. Each type of ice has its own unique characteristics and uses, so it's important to choose the right one for your specific needs. Whether you're sipping on a cocktail or preserving food, the right type of ice can make all the difference.
