It’s August and the humidity is sky high, which makes it a perfect time to distract ourself with cool things: exhilarating lake breezes, two scoops of vanilla in a waffle cone (with sprinkles!) and a Michigan Clear Water speciality: crisp, delicious ICE!
We all know the basics on how ice is formed, but just in case, here’s a little refresher. Ice is the solid form of water. It occurs when water freezes and its temperature drops below 0°C (32°F). Ice has a crystalline structure, typically forming hexagonal crystals, and is less dense than liquid water, which is why it floats. Of course, ice isn’t just that crunchy substance that keeps our drinks cold. It can be found in glaciers, frost and snow. But when it comes to keeping us cool and our beverages satisfying, did you know there are many different kinds of ice cubes? Each are designed for various purposes, with unique characteristics.
Here are some common types:
1. Standard Cubes: These are the typical ice cubes made in household ice trays or automatic ice makers. They are generally square or rectangular in shape.
2. Crushed Ice: Small, irregularly shaped pieces of ice often used in cocktails, slushies, and for cooling beverages quickly.
3. Nugget Ice: Also known as “chewable ice” or “Sonic ice,” these are small, soft, and chewable pieces of ice. They are popular in drinks because they absorb flavors and are easy to chew.
4. Sphere Ice: Large, round ice balls that melt more slowly than standard ice cubes. They are often used in whiskey and other spirits to chill the drink without diluting it too quickly.
5. Flake Ice: Thin, flat pieces of ice commonly used in food displays and preservation, such as in seafood markets or salad bars.
6. Tube Ice: Cylindrical ice cubes with a hole through the center, produced by commercial ice makers. They are used in various applications, from cooling beverages to preserving perishable goods.
Chewable ice has become increasingly popular across various sectors, from healthcare facilities to offices and restaurants, and is always a welcome addition to any break room. Here’s why:
- Soft and Enjoyable Texture: Unlike traditional ice cubes, chewable ice is soft and easy to chew, providing a pleasant, refreshing experience.
- Enhanced Hydration: The chewable nature encourages increased water consumption. Users are more likely to drink water throughout the day, leading to better hydration.
- Versatility: Chewable ice is perfect for a wide range of beverages, from sodas and cocktails to smoothies. Its ability to cool drinks quickly without diluting them makes it a favorite among consumers.
At Michigan Clear Water we offer a variety of bottleless water dispensers that provide both bullet and nugget (chewable) ice and are suitable for any budget. The i15 and i16 Ice and Water Dispensers from Wellsys elevate the user experience to a new level. The i15 and i16 models are meticulously engineered to produce high-quality chewable ice efficiently and reliably. The all new i12 Ice and Water Dispenser provides hot, cold and ambient water with the touch of a sensor, as well as elegant bullet ice on demand. The PWT 15000 Countertop Water and Ice Machine dispenses chewable ice, as well as hot and room temperature water. This sleek machine can produce up to 125 lbs per day with 7 lbs of storage and takes up minimal space.
Ready for a summer cool down? We’ve got a refreshing solution! Reach out to Michigan Clear Water today for a free 7 Day Trial!