The Pros and Cons of Chilling Fish With Slush Ice
Within the commercial fishing industry, proper storage techniques are of paramount importance. If the freshly caught fish are not kept at the proper temperature, they deteriorate, and the entire shipment is ruined. Of the many cooling methods supplied by SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC, a system bolstered by slush ice is one of the most beneficial. In using this method, commercial fishing businesses ensure the protection of their stock.
The Origins of Slush Ice
When trying to preserve fish, low temperatures are essential to preventing the development of bacteria as well as spoiling. Over the years people have devised numerous cooling methods. One of the most popular is slush ice, which is produced simply by mixing water and ice together. Though slush ice does not chill fish as quickly as other cooling methods, there are still several important advantages associated with this cooling system.
Slush Ice Is an Effective Cooling Agent
Due to its composition, slush ice easily reduces the temperature of fish to zero degrees. The ice is usually placed within small, insulated tubs that promote a low-temperature environment. Once placed within the tubs, the fish quickly cool and remain fresh throughout the length of their shipment. As a result of its impressive cooling abilities, slush ice is becoming popular within many sectors of the fishing industry, particular shrimping companies.
Slush Ice Is Easy to Produce and Transport
Convenience is another huge advantage to using slush ice. Unlike other cooling systems, it is not difficult to transport and can be fashioned to fit into the confines of almost any container. Furthermore, ice is a resource that people can attain in almost any location. As long as they have access to clean water and a cooling agent, they can produce as much ice as they need. When a clean water source is not readily available, workers can treat their available water supply with a purification technique.
Slush Ice Keeps Fish Well-Preserved
Without ice, it is likely the entire fishing industry would collapse. Few other resources are capable of preserving food for such long periods of time. After fish are caught, the ice maintains their freshness through each stage of the transportation process. It is only through slush ice and other cooling systems that customers are able to indulge in fresh, tasty seafood. Without such resources, fish would no longer be a viable commodity.
Slush Ice Helps Fish Retain Moisture
Slush ice is composed of essentially two elements: ice and water. Whereas the former functions as a cooling system, the latter preserves the moisture of the fish. When fish are refrigerated, they have a tendency to dehydrate and diminish in weight. Not only does water retain moisture, but it also assists in the cooling process. As the water evaporates, it promotes increased heat transport and cools the fish more quickly. This reduces the chance of spoiling and keeps the fish as fresh as the day they were caught.
Drawbacks to Using Slush Ice
While slush ice is an overwhelmingly effective cooling method, it does have a few drawbacks. For instance, when there is too much water in the slush ice, it may melt and leave the fish exposed to higher temperatures. By simply having workers monitor the liquidity of the ice, however, this problem can be avoided. Another limitation of slush ice is that it may cause pigments and micronutrients within the fish to drain out. Drier types of cooling systems are usually more adept at retaining such substances.
In spite of its few disadvantages, slush ice remains an effective and efficient cooling solution. The moment fish leave the water, they start to breakdown and lose their freshness. The cooling systems offered by SEMCO/SEMCOLD LLC successfully preserve fish throughout the transportation process. Please contact us to discuss your needs so that we can determine if slush ice is the right cooling method for you.
