The utilisation of freezing bulk ingredients is common in food and beverage manufacturing. However, standard freezing processes can cause clumping, large ice crystal formation, and loss of natural nutrients, which negatively affects manufacturing and product quality.
Langdon have been cultivating relationships with some of the world’s leading suppliers of Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) products, to arm our customers with the solutions for these manufacturing challenges. In this article we will outline the key benefits of nutrient-rich IQF products and their usage for manufacturers.
Why is IQF Superior for Manufacturers?
Individually quick freezing involves snap freezing individual pieces at harvest, offering numerous benefits to manufacturers:
Nutrient and Flavour Preservation: IQF retains the natural taste and nutritional value of ingredients, ensuring high-quality end products.
Ease of Use: Reducing clumping and large ice crystals, making portioning, pouring, and weighing straightforward and efficient.
Consistency and Affordability: Ensures uniformity in size and quality, leading to consistent product performance.
Extended Shelf Life: Up to four years (when stored at -18°C), reducing restocking frequency and waste.
Reduction of Food Waste: Preserves peak freshness, minimising spoilage and associated costs.
Reliability and Sustainability
IQF supports sustainable manufacturing practices, addressing climate concerns and reducing reliance on ultra-processed foods. Snap-freezing at the point of harvest minimises nutrient loss and degradation, providing a reliable and high-quality ingredient source. This reduces transportation and storage needs, lowering the overall carbon footprint.
Furthermore, IQF products help manufacturers manage stock more effectively. The consistency and long shelf life of IQF ingredients ensures availability and quality, crucial in an increasingly unstable climate where the supply of fresh products can be unpredictable.
Cost Efficiency
With no defrosting required, IQF products streamline the manufacturing process, saving time and labour costs, and improving operational efficiency. Moreover, accurate dosing through easy pouring, portioning, and weighing controls costs and increases precision. Given the 9.2% rise in costs[1] (Food Manufacturer) over the past year, these savings are significant.
Customisation and Control
IQF products are available in a range of cut sizes, shapes and pack sizes to enable manufacturers to find the right fit for their application and manufacturing needs.
For example, our basil is available in 1-3mm and 1-6mm cuts, ideal for different culinary uses. Pack sizes range from 2kg to 15kg, supporting easy handling and personalised orders. Working with fresh basil can be challenging due to various factors. The benefit of IQF basil when used in its frozen state is that it delivers the same fresh taste, nutritional value and vibrant colour of its fresh counterpart, without the hassle.
Mutual Benefits for Manufacturers and Consumers
While IQF primarily benefits manufacturers, it also appeals to consumers who prioritise climate concerns and prefer minimally processed, fresh foods. IQF products, frozen immediately after harvest, offer a ‘fresher than fresh’ experience, meeting consumer demands and simplifying manufacturing.
Learn more about our IQF range and download our full IQF catalogue via the link here.
For more information on food trends and market insights, check out our journals here.
Please note, we are not affiliated, associated, or in any way officially connected with the brands and products mentioned within this post.
References: [1] https://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Article/2024/05/20/uk-food-and-drink-manufacturing-industry-report-2023-2024
