For fish and seafood, there are features in an ice counter that matter to maintaining the freshness and quality of seafood products. The overall function of such equipment is to keep the seafood slightly above frozen to prevent spoilage, ideally between 32°F and 36°F (0°C and 2°C). This maintains the texture, color, and flavor of the fish, which will quickly decline when kept warm. As stated by the National Fisheries Institute, seafood will spoil in a matter of hours if it is not refrigerated at the correct temperature, so refrigeration is one of the most significant considerations in a seafood ice counter’s design.
Also important is the functionality of the ice counter in providing an even coating of the surface with ice. This allows that the fish is kept cold and submerged, preventing the risks of temperature fluctuation that could cause bacterial growth. A good ice counter can extend the storage life of seafood by up to 40%, as estimated by industry reports, reducing losses and maximizing the quality of produce.
The size and capacity of the ice counter also matter, in that they should be large enough to hold a sufficient quantity of ice and seafood without overcrowding. Crowding of product within a small unit can lead to uneven cooling, while a big unit with changeable compartments is flexible in display and storage. A good rule is that the ice counter will have to be wide enough to hold seafood under ice a minimum of 3 to 4 inches deep, without exposure to warm air, which will speed up spoilage.
The design of the counter itself adds to users’ efficiency. Sloped trays, transparent lids, and smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces enable store owners and consumers to interact with the product comfortably and hygienically. Sloped ice bed counters, for example, provide optimal drainage, reducing water accumulation, which may make fish lose quality or become wet. Transparent covers or glass panels also enable the customer to see the range without opening the counter, maintaining it cold and clean. According to a survey by the Food Marketing Institute, 70% of consumers prefer open displays because they feel more confident about the freshness of the seafood.
An effective Fish And Seafood Ice Counter can also be environmentally friendly. New insulation technology and energy-efficient compressors in models can retain as much as 30% of the energy, offering a greener solution for companies. These counters allow companies to save money on electricity bills while ensuring optimal storage conditions for seafood.
For a business that is looking for a high-quality and well-designed seafood storage solution, a Fish And Seafood Ice Counter to these specifications can ensure the quality and longevity of their products.