3 Things You Shouldn't Do When Using Dry Ice
If you intend to ship perishable food products or establish a business that deals with perishable specialty foods, you will need to buy dry ice. It will chill anything surrounding it, and the fact that it doesn't melt as fast as regular ice means the products will stay fresh for longer. You will have enough time to get the products to the market or restaurant regardless of the weather.
But some people assume that dry ice works the same way as regular ice, which has led to many problems. Due to this, it's advisable to know more about dry ice to make the most out of it. Below are things you shouldn't do when you opt to use dry ice.
Don't Get the Ice Too Early
The fact that dry ice takes longer to melt than regular ice doesn't mean that it will stay frozen for days. The ice loses a few kilograms each day, and since it converts into gas, you will not see its residue the same way you would see regular ice turn to water. For this reason, you should get the ice hours before using it. This way, you will ensure your food supplies are kept fresh, and the ice doesn't get wasted.
Don't Use the Ice in a Poorly Ventilated Area
Since this ice is made using carbon dioxide, it will turn to gas when melting. Keeping it in an area that isn't well-ventilated could lead to problems later on. For instance, the gas can build up and replace oxygen in a room or truck. This leads to fainting, and that's the last thing you want to experience in a kitchen or during transportation. So, make sure you keep dry ice in a well-ventilated area and keep the windows open to enhance air circulation.
Don't Keep the Ice in a Freezer or Container
To ensure dry ice performs appropriately, you must store it properly. Don't make the mistake of keeping it in a freezer the same way you would store regular ice. Freezers are warmer, so the dry ice will evaporate quicker than expected. Keeping the dry ice in an airtight container isn't allowed because it will turn to gas, and without proper ventilation, the container will explode. This may cause severe injuries or property damage. It's better to store the ice in an insulated cooler as this will help maintain the extremely low temperatures while letting it get some ventilation.
Dry ice can preserve your produce for longer than regular ice, but it should be used properly to enjoy the full benefits. The tips mentioned above are an excellent place to start, so don't ignore them.