Durable ice cream cups: how to prevent ice cream from melting too quickly?
In the world of ice cream sales, whether in-store or for delivery, a recurring problem can impact the customer experience: the product melting too quickly. If ice cream starts to liquefy before it can be enjoyed, it loses its texture, visual appeal, and flavor. To avoid this inconvenience, it's essential to choose the right container, optimize storage, and follow best serving practices.
Which ice cream cups best preserve cold? Which materials should you favor? What are the best tips to limit melting? Here is a complete guide to prolong ice cream freshness and ensure an optimal tasting experience.
The importance of choosing the right ice cream cup
The choice of container is crucial. An unsuitable cup can accelerate melting, while a well-designed model helps preserve it better.
Which materials offer the best insulation?
Some materials provide superior thermal insulation. Double-wall cardboard cups, due to their thickness, limit heat transfer. Kraft cups with internal coating offer an eco-friendly solution while effectively preserving cold. Lastly, bagasse cups, made from natural fibers, are both sturdy and thermally efficient. At Covr, we offer a wide range of ice cream cups to meet these requirements.
The importance of lids to limit thermal exchange
A proper lid is essential to prevent premature melting. Transparent PET lids are popular for showcasing products visually while providing effective protection. Cardboard lids offer enhanced thermal insulation and meet the environmental expectations of consumers. Always adding a lid is therefore crucial, especially for takeaway or delivery orders.
Storage and preservation conditions: rules to follow
Even the best ice cream cup won't maintain product quality without proper storage.
The ideal storage temperature
To ensure firm and pleasant texture, ice cream should be stored at a consistent temperature between -18°C and -20°C. Storing at a higher temperature accelerates melting, while extreme cold can alter texture.
Limit temperature fluctuations
Each freezer or display opening lets in warm air, which harms ice cream. It's recommended to avoid frequent openings, use full-door freezers (which maintain temperature better than glass-door models), and store ice cream in the coldest areas, away from heat sources.
Transport and takeaway: the importance of insulation
During deliveries or takeaway sales, it's crucial to use coolers or insulated bags to protect ice cream from external heat. Choosing well-insulated ice cream cups also helps limit melting during transport. Lastly, avoid prolonged sun or high-temperature exposure. Note that custom ice cream cups not only enhance your brand image but also ensure optimal product preservation.
Optimize service to avoid premature melting
Serve quickly to avoid heat exposure
To preserve freshness, it's best to prepare orders at the last minute to minimize time spent out of the freezer. Also minimize handling of the cups to avoid transferring body heat.
Play with the density of the ice cream
Dense and compact ice cream melts more slowly than airy ice cream. Artisan ice cream, denser by nature, thus has an advantage over lighter industrial ice cream. The overrun level, or the amount of air incorporated, directly affects cold retention and melting speed.
Use strategic toppings
Some toppings can help slow melting. A thin layer of chocolate or caramel acts as a protective barrier against heat. Adding frozen fruit also helps maintain lower temperatures around the ice cream.
Why choose Covr for your ice cream cups?
At Covr, we understand the needs of ice cream professionals. We offer a full range of ice cream cups specifically designed to limit melting and improve preservation. Our custom ice cream cups also allow you to effectively promote your brand.
We also provide suitable lids to enhance insulation, as well as sturdy, practical, and eco-friendly ice cream spoons—perfect for takeaway sales or in-store tastings. Covr is committed to offering sustainable solutions that combine performance and environmental responsibility.
Conclusion
Preventing ice cream from melting too quickly relies on several factors: choosing the right cup and lid, proper storage and transport conditions, and efficient service. By combining these best practices, you provide your customers with an optimal tasting experience.
Investing in suitable packaging like those offered by Covr is a key lever to improve product quality, enhance brand image, and build customer loyalty.