Although we might be approaching the autumn months, the late Indian summer we’ve been having recently has made everyone get out their sunglasses and enjoy as many ice-creams as they can before the weather turns again.
Having waited months for high temperatures and clear skies, Brits have been going mad for the sunshine, so it’s likely that frozen dessert shops have been experiencing a surge in demand from customers desperate to make the most of the glorious sunshine.
In this case, it is essential to get your food packaging ready. So, how exactly should you keep cold foods chilled?
Cardboard boxes
Although you might think you need a thermos or thick material to protect the heat from penetrating your frozen pudding, you can actually keep it safe just by putting it in a cardboard box.
As cardboard has low thermal conductivity levels, it is a good insulator. This means heat does not travel well through the material, so hot temperatures on the outside should not impact the cold food inside.
The poor heat transfer means it is actually really good at insulation. This is why cardboard is often used as a temporary replacement after a break-in. Although it’s not exactly the most secure option, it is good at not letting heat from the building escape.
Ice-cream tubs
If you are planning on selling foods for people to eat as soon as they leave your premises then stock up on wholesale ice-cream paper cups.
These containers are a firm favourite, as they can be recycled, unlike plastic ones, making them a great environmentally-friendly food packaging choice. Just don’t include a plastic spoon with each purchase.
Don’t forget that not everyone wants a cone with their ice-cream, so it’s important to have another option. What’s more, though they might be ice-cream tubs, you’re not limited to putting the frozen dessert in there.
Why not use them for cheesecakes, gateaux or profiteroles instead?
Kraft food bowls, which are made out of cardboard, are also a good option for chilled salads, pasta, rice or couscous dishes, which are ideal for refreshing lunches on the hotter days.
Cold packs
If you have to transport cold foods, it is sensible to use cold packs. This will reduce the chance of the goods warming up and perishing.
Cold packs typically last between 24 and 36 hours, which should be plenty of time to get your items from one place to another, particularly if they are just being sent within the UK.
They tend to keep food between zero and 15.5 degrees C. However, to ensure your frozen food remains as cold as possible, insulated foam containers are a sensible option. The thicker the foam wall, the cooler the food will remain. Therefore, it is more likely to last longer before going off.
It is important to properly wrap the frozen foods, as this will help keep it cooler for longer too.
These tips should give catering businesses some guidance when serving or transporting cold foods. Even when the temperature drops again, it is still worth having this packaging available, as you don’t need sunny weather to enjoy an ice-cream!
