Progression of Food Preservation Techniques from Ice Harvesting to Modern Freezers

Ice cream remains a beloved treat worldwide. After a satisfying meal, many opt for this creamy dessert to end their dining experience. While visiting ice-cream parlors is commonplace today, have you ever wondered how ice-cream was stored before freezers existed?

The Pre-Freezer Era

Before freezers became widespread in the 19th and 20th centuries, refrigeration relied on traditional methods. An iceman would gather snow during winter, salt it, and wrap it in cloth, then hide it underground to preserve it for months. This ice was sold across regions based on demand.

Household refrigeration involved wooden containers lined with insulating materials like zinc, filled with snow and ice—known as an "ice-box." However, this technique was inefficient, often only lasting a week before needing replacement or refilling.

The Birth of Freezing Technology

The development of freezers began in the 18th century, initially led by Scottish scientist William Cullen, who demonstrated vaporizing ethyl ether in a vacuum. Over time, many engineers contributed to refining refrigeration technology.

In the 1800s, American inventor Oliver Evans designed an early refrigerator, though it was not commercially successful. French scientist Michel Faraday used liquefied ammonia for cooling in the 1820s. Jacob Perkins, known as the "father of the refrigerator," built the first practical model in 1835.

By 1842, John Gorrie expanded on these designs to develop machines capable of producing ice. Other notable contributors include Ferdinand Carre, Carl von Linde, Albert T. Marshall, and even Albert Einstein. In 1913, Fred W. Wolf introduced the first commercial upright freezer, revolutionizing storage.

By the late 19th century, breweries adopted these freezers for beer storage, making refrigeration an essential part of the industry.

How Do Commercial Upright Freezers Operate?

Refrigerants cycle through coils in these freezers, vaporizing to absorb heat during evaporation. This heat is expelled outside via coils, and the refrigerant then condenses back into a liquid in the compressor. This cycle ensures continuous cooling and preservation.

Contemporary Commercial Upright Freezers

The early cooling agents posed environmental risks. In 1926, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were introduced, but by the 1970s, their harmful effects led to the adoption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). While safer, these still have environmental concerns.

Top 5 Brands of Commercial Upright Freezers

Scotsman Prodigy: One of the world's leading manufacturers with energy-efficient models.

Howard McCray: Known for innovative design, quality, and excellent service.

Cornelius: Renowned for refrigeration products for beverages and food storage.

Fogel: Offers over 120 products, including freezers and food prep equipment.

Electro Freezer: Specializes in freezers with advanced pressure technologies and user-friendly models.

Choosing high-quality commercial upright freezers ensures optimal food preservation and efficient business operations, combining innovation with reliability.