Guide to Slush Machines

Slush Machines are an excellent tool to have as part of a restaurant small business or even for entertaining at large business events. Slush machines can even double as snow cone makers or frozen drink machines.

Slush machines come in several varieties with many different features. Some just shave ice, while others also make the ice themselves. Commercial slushy machines are often larger and have more features, but others made exclusively as slush machines are more portable or useful in the home. When shopping for ice slush machines, keep some things in mind:

1.Decide whether or not you need your slushy machine to make ice.

 Think about the ice you’ll need for your slushy machine. Slushies must get their ice from somewhere, and slush machines will either produce their own ice using a water source or grind up a block of ice that you provide. I recommend: Most commercial ice slush machines make their own ice, and are actually just ice machines with a function for shaving or flaking the ice. Some companies with an online selection will even allow you to narrow your search of ice machines by type of ice (cubed, crushed, flaked) that you need. Other companies, offer machines that either use cubed ice or an ice block that the machine freezes itself from water. 

2.Determine the space requirements for your slush maker.

Know how big your slush machine can be. Ice slush machines come in a wide range of sizes–most of the commercial machines referenced above are extremely large freezer-sized machines, but you also can get smaller options for a restaurant or home. I recommend: For a smaller slush machine, try a manufacturer that offers beverage dispensers that will simply mix the flaked ice and the syrup and then dispense. These don’t make or shave the ice, but will mix the beverages and offer a convenient and attractive way to serve them. Smaller, cheaper slushy machines are available for home use.

3.Consider the ingredients and materials you might need to buy to make slushies.

Ask suppliers. Find a deal on what goes in the slushy maker. After you’ve found a slushy machine you like, you’ll need the ingredients to make an ice slush and what you’re going to put the slushy in after you make it.   

Other Tips & Tactics Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide •

Understand the difference between a slushy and a smoothie. If what you really want is to serve smoothies, you’re better off with an industrial strength blender than trying to use flaked or shaved ice from a slush machine.



Source: Guide to Slush Machines, How to get a slushy maker for your restaurant or event, by Lesley Graybeal, http://www.business.com/guides/slush-machines-3589

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