Be Healthier Eating Italian Ice
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Be Healthier Eating Italian Ice!
Italian Water Ice is a great choice for those with dietary restrictions, as it is dairy-free, gluten-free, egg-free, and cholesterol-free. It is also a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or have allergies to dairy products, although some flavors may have a dairy ingredient. The simple fruit-based flavors are usually the best bet. Italian ice is a refreshing alternative to traditional ice cream and sorbet. But one of the main concerns for many people when it comes to consuming frozen treats is the calorie count.
Calorie Count in Italian Ice: The calorie count in Italian water ice can vary greatly depending on the ingredients and serving size. On average, a 1/2 cup serving of water ice contains between 70 to 130 calories. This is significantly lower than a standard serving of ice cream, which contains around 250 calories. The calorie count in Italian ice can also vary based on the type of flavor you choose. For instance, a serving of lemon Italian ice may contain around 70 calories, while a serving of mango Italian ice may contain around 130 calories. The calories come from sugar or fructose, and those with diabetes should be mindful of this fact and limit their consumption accordingly. Some individual stores who manufacture their own products often vary their recipes by adding real fruit bits and candy morsels, which increase the caloric content, or they skimp on flavor to save money and dilute their product. Diluted product equals more water content and less sugars.
Shaved ice – sometimes referred to as snow cones – is created by taking a block of ice and using a machine to shave it into fine, snow-like pieces. Shaved ice is then typically topped with flavored syrups, giving it a sweet taste. The syrup is absorbed into the ice, giving it a uniform flavor throughout. Some popular toppings include fruity flavors such as cherry, blue raspberry, and lemon. Shaved ice is more granular and crunchy than Italian Ice. Quicker to produce than Italian Ice, snow cones are a favorite of school events and summer camps since plain old ice is simply pumped over with flavored syrups. No measuring or special training required. Caution is required however, as too much syrup pumped too fast always splashes in a tie-dyed fashion on apron-less shirts and makes for a soggy cup!
If you manufacture your own Italian Ice, the multitude of flavors available in concentrated bases, flavors and syrups can be overwhelming. Know your market and customers, and feature the most popular flavor profiles. Be sure to try NEW flavors each year and switch up your menu seasonally, You can even rotate in a “Limited Time Featured Flavor” to create interest and to keep your curious and daring customers coming back for more. This can also serve as a test market for next year’s permanent flavor on your menu board.
Both shaved ice and Italian ice are great options for a sweet, cold treat on a warm day. However, the differences in texture, flavor and nutrition set them apart. If you’re looking for a sweet, creamy treat, Italian ice is the way to go. If you’re looking for a simple, icy treat, shaved ice is the way to go. Either way, you are sure to enjoy these cold and delicious treats especially during the steamy Dog Days of Summer!
Gil's Wholesale Distributors
322 W Oak Lane Glenolden PA 19036
610-237-6500
Gil's Ice Cream Supplies / Gil’s Wholesale Distributors is a family owned Pennsylvania based full service distributor with over 47 years of providing personalized service & product expertise for wholesale tobacco, cigars, cigarettes & tobacco related products, ice cream, Italian Ice & Gelato manufacturing supplies, convenience store supplies, paper & plastic items, candy, concession, automotive and janitorial products.
Located 10 minutes from the Philadelphia International Airport, our delivery area is PA, NJ, and DE and we ship throughout the U.S. and abroad by common carrier, as well as offer convenient Pick Up services at our customer-friendly showroom.
Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
One Stop Shopping. Free parking. Convenient delivery.
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