Courtesy
of the International Ice Cream Association
The
International Ice Cream Association (IICA) offers some important
suggestions on the proper handling and storage of ice cream and
frozen desserts to help everyone enjoy America's favorite treat
to the fullest. Ice cream is a perishable product and should be
treated as such. When it is exposed to fluctuating temperatures
above 10°F., it becomes subject to adverse changes in body,
texture and flavor characteristics. Although individual manufacturers'
recipes yield ice cream of varying body, consistency and flavor,
all are subject to similar changes under like conditions.
Here
are some tips to keep ice cream in its most delectable form.
At
home:
Never allow
ice cream to repeatedly soften and refreeze. When ice cream's
small ice crystals melt and refreeze, they can turn into large,
unpalatable lumps.
Ice cream
is best when stored between -5 and 0°F.; it will be firm
enough to hold its shape, but easy to dip between 6 and 10°F,
the ideal serving temperature range. Store ice cream in the
main part of the freezer, not in the door where it is subject
to more fluctuating temperatures.
Don't
store ice cream with other foods in the freezer that are uncovered;
odors may penetrate ice cream and affect its flavor.
In
the store:
Make the
ice cream aisle your last stop in the supermarket.
Watch
the temperature of your grocer's freezer case. The temperature
for ice cream products stored in your supermarket's freezer
case should be no warmer than -20°F. If they are kept at
their proper temperature, they will be thoroughly frozen and
feel hard to the touch.
In an
open top freezer case, always select ice cream and frozen dessert
treats stored below the freezer line.
Put ice
cream products in the separate basket of your grocery cart,
or on top of other groceries. Insulate ice cream products for
the ride home. When your groceries are packed, request a freezer
bag or additional brown paper bag to insulate your ice cream.
By following
these simple suggestions, you can help ensure that your ice
cream and other frozen dessert treats will stay the way they
left the manufacturer-attractive and delicious
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