Jay Mark Blog | Foodservice Equipment News & Trends

Understanding the Art and Shapes of Follett Ice

Written by The Jay Mark Group | Mar 22, 2024 2:32:54 PM

In the world of foodservice, ice is often the unsung hero in the conversation. Beyond its cooling function, ice plays a pivotal role in enhancing flavors, preserving ingredients, and elevating presentations. The right ice can make all the difference in delivering a memorable experience. From upscale restaurants to bustling hospitals, Follett Ice delivers a range of ice shapes that meet and exceed the expectations of staff, customers, and patients.

History of Follett 

With a history of over 75 years, Follett is a trailblazer in the world of ice solutions. Founded in 1948 by Roy Follett, the company began its journey in Pennsylvania to revolutionize how ice is used commercially. Since then, Follett has undergone much growth and transformation by expanding its product offerings and providing solutions to consumer issues.

Armed with cutting-edge engineering and a deep understanding of industry needs, Follett has pioneered several breakthrough innovations in ice maker design and functionality. Its diverse ice maker portfolio suits various applications and space requirements, from compact countertop units to high-capacity modular systems.

Why Ice Shape Matters

Ice is not just frozen water; it's a culinary tool that can significantly impact a dish or beverage's taste, presentation, and the customer's overall experience. It's so essential in foodservice that it is considered a food product by the United States Food and Drug Administration and needs to be treated accordingly. 

One thing that many people need to consider is how the shape of ice plays a role in various culinary applications. Influencing factors such as melt rate, texture, and aesthetic appeal make a big difference when keeping food chilled or creating mixed drinks.

Follett Ice understands the importance of ice shape and offers diverse options to suit every need and preference.

Chewblet® Ice

Known for its distinctive nugget shape, Chewblet ice is a favorite among foodservice professionals for its slow melt rate and chewable texture. Great for fountain drinks, Chewblet ice also absorbs the flavor of the liquid in which it is placed. Healthcare facilities also rely on Chewblet ice for patients who might not be able to eat due to a procedure but are allowed to chew on ice to keep hydrated.

Micro Chewblet™ Ice

With the chewable texture of its larger counterpart but in a smaller size, the Micro Chewblet ice is perfect for delicate cocktails, quick service restaurants or convenience store drink dispensers, and medical applications.

Flake Ice

Flake ice boasts a soft, snow-like texture that molds effortlessly to any container, making it ideal for food displays, seafood preservation, and therapeutic use. Its rapid cooling properties and ability to maintain product freshness make it a staple in commercial kitchens and healthcare facilities alike.

How Follett Can Help Multiple Operations

Solutions from Follett Ice assist in many applications across healthcare and foodservice.

Labor Reduction

Imagine being able to transport ice to a drink dispenser from up to 75 feet away. With Ride® Remote Delivery, it's possible to keep customers happy without needing staff keep ice on hand and interupting service. 

 

In addition to helping with labor, storing ice in a remote loction and delivering ice automatically means there's less ability for cross contamination.

Sanitation and Safety

Follett always keeps patient and customer safety in mind. The Symphony Plus™ ice and water dispenser has antimicrobial product protection that helps inhibit microbial growth, while its hands -free dispensers reduce cross-contamination concerns. And with an automatic self-flushing of the ice machine and a drain cup for protection, the Symphony Plus was designed with safety in mind. 

Whether crafting artisan cocktails, preserving perishable goods, or soothing sore muscles, Follett Ice rises to the occasion with unparalleled performance and reliability.

Ready to learn more about how Follett Ice can help your business? Schedule time to meet with one of our expert team members: