IQF vs block-frozen vegetables: what changes for a manufacturer
- What IQF means
- What block freezing means
- Portioning and yield
- Storage and handling
- What to put in your specification
What IQF means
Individually quick frozen: each piece freezes separately on a fluidised bed, so the product stays free-flowing in the bag. [COPY TBC]
What block freezing means
Product frozen as a solid block in a plate freezer or carton; pieces are fused until the block is broken or thawed. [COPY TBC]
Portioning and yield
How the two formats behave on a manufacturing line — dosing, thawing and drip. [COPY TBC]
| On the line | IQF | Block-frozen |
|---|---|---|
| Pieces | Separate, free-flowing | Fused in the block |
| Portioning | Straight from the bag | [COPY TBC] |
| Thawing before use | [COPY TBC] | [COPY TBC] |
| Specification check | Size distribution, clumps ≤ 2 % w/w | [COPY TBC] |
Storage and handling
Both formats are held at −18 °C or colder; pallet density and case formats differ. [COPY TBC]
Note. Every Sunshine product page lists the case dimensions, pallet pattern and net tonnage per 40' HC reefer for each format.
What to put in your specification
Cut and tolerance band, size distribution, free-flowing limit, micro limits and pack format. [COPY TBC]
