According to a Maximize Market Research report, the reusable ice pack market is estimated to grow to a whopping $3,010 million by 2027. When it comes to cold storage, we have come a long way since 1959, when Albert A. Robbins invented the first ice bag.
Today, let’s look at ice bags, their industrial/commercial and individual use cases, storage & durability, reusability, things to consider before purchasing, and more!
What Are Ice Bags?
Ice bags are containers that serve as a solution for keeping ice fresh, maintaining its quality, and simplifying its usability. Be it for industrial use or individual consumption, these bags are the means to store ice and carry out many applications. These include cold therapy or cryotherapy for pain relief, first aid, food safety, or any application that requires cold temperature. Ice bags are available in different sizes and can be made of different materials, all based on the intent they serve.
Ice bags can be reusable or instant- reusable bags can be refilled and used again upon freezing, while instant ice bags contain gels which makes them retain the cold temperature for extended periods. It may not be necessary to freeze instant ice bags.
What are Ice Bags Used for?
Ice bags serve a wide variety of purposes, both for individuals as well as commercial establishments. Let’s take a look at some of them.
- Medical usage: As we have just seen, ice bags are crucial for pain relief via cold therapy or cryotherapy. These insulated bags also helps with reducing any inflammation, swelling, burn, strain, and more. It also helps with first aid by providing quick numbing and temporary relief until medical attention can be given.
- Cold Storage: Ice bags are used to keep food & beverages at cold temperatures. These are helpful to prevent spoilage and also to retain the cool temperatures for outdoor activities such as picnics, for example.
- Food industry: In bars, restaurants, hotels, and more, ice bags are handy for stocking food items & beverages at low temperatures and also for hygienically storing, transporting, and using ice cubes.
- Logistics & supply chain: Ice bags are crucial in transporting easily perishable items that require maintenance at a certain temperature. Examples include food, medicines, and the like.
How Long Do Ice Bags Last?
The longevity of ice bags can vary depending on the type, usage, capacity, and ambient temperature; however, they can last a few hours easily. A reusable ice bag can be frozen and reused again. To boost their longevity, ensure ice bags are stored properly and kept away from any sharp object that can cause tear or puncture.
What are Ice Bags Made of?
Ice bags can be made from a variety of materials, and these include:
- Plastic: This is a popular material when it comes to ice bags. They can be made from High-density polyethylene [HDPE] or low-density polyethylene [LDPE] and are affordable and highly durable.
- Vinyl: Ice bags made from vinyl are common for many uses, such as medical cold therapy. These bags tend to be water-resistant, flexible, and long-lasting.
- Fabric: Some ice bags are made from fabric such as cotton or canvas. These bags have higher resistance to puncture and tear and are also environment-friendly.
What are Some Safety Precautions to Take When Using Ice Bags?
It’s best to avoid coming in direct contact with ice bags; instead, it is recommended to wear gloves or protective wear. This will prevent your skin from getting frostbite, ice burn, or any injury due to sudden contact with low temperatures. For instance, if you use ice bags for medical purposes, wrap them with a cloth and avoid further injury.
Can Ice Bags be Recycled or Reused?
No, not all ice bags can be recycled or reused. Disposable ice bags are designed for one-time use and is usually discarded. These bags are usually made of materials such as plastic[LDPE & HDPE]. On the other hand, reusable ice bags can be used multiple times. These are generally made from nylon or fabric such as canvas and are more environmentally friendly.
Can You Refreeze Dry Ice Bags?
No, it is not possible to refreeze dry ice bags. Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide gas and, when melted, turns directly into the gaseous form instead of liquid. Hence it gets the name. Thus, when dry ice is exposed to warm temperatures, it turns directly into carbon dioxide gas[sublimation process]. If you try refreezing an insulated dry ice bag, it will not turn work like a normal one. Please note that extreme care must be taken while handling dry ice, and it is crucial to store dry ice in a well-ventilated space to avoid any harm or accidents.
What are the Factors to Consider When Selecting Ice Bags for Commercial Use?
If your business requires ice bags in bulk, it is worth considering the following factors to ensure the product matches your needs perfectly. What are they?
- Capacity: The size of the ice bag, and thereby its capacity, must be considered depending on the requirements. For instance, larger bags can be useful for transport & storage, while smaller bags can help for medical purposes.
- Manufacturing Material: Ice bags can be manufactured from many materials, such as fabric, plastic, nylon, etc. Plastic ice bags are affordable and ideal for single-time use, while nylon & fabric ice bags are durable and longer lasting, although more expensive.
- Configurations: Depending on the purpose, you can also customize the bag with added features such as wickets, reusable closures for easy opening & closing, heat-sealed construction to prevent leaking, or any reinforcements for strength.
- Custom Logo Printing: As a business, it is wise to brand your ice bags with the company logo and any important information. Thus, opt for an ice bag manufacturer or supplier who provides this customization.
- Reusability: Depending on the use, you can purchase either a one-time or reusable ice bag.
What are the Benefits of Ice Bags?
Ice bags offer many benefits for businesses like yours, such as:
- A convenient way to store & transport ice without compromising hygiene & quality. Ice bags can be stocked safely in environments such as freezers, refrigerators, etc, without worry.
- Plenty of room for customization and a variety of features available. You can opt for a single-use large-capacity plastic bag as well as a small reusable bag made of nylon.
- Ice bags made of materials such as LDPE & HDPE plastic are cost-effective, which is highly beneficial for small businesses & enterprises.
RediBagUSA: The Best Ice Bag Manufacturer
With RedibagUSA, your business can easily reach the goal of storage & boosting the longevity of supplies. Browse through our wide range of ice bags in various configurations.
Our standard ice bags are available in capacities such as 5lb, 10lb, and 20lb. Our manufacturing process and raw materials ensure exceptional strength for your bags at lower costs. With our centerfold stock, any automated equipment is easy to load & run.
If you are looking for brand customization, we can provide custom-printed ice bags to boost your business.
Rely on the Experience
With a complete and diversified selection of products, RediBagUSA is the company you were searching for. We handle the production, distribution, and logistics capabilities to serve some of the world’s largest international supermarkets and quick-service restaurants.
Contact us for more information about our offer and how we can satisfy your every packaging need!