APPLICATIONS
Hardening or crust freezing in the food industry involves rapid freezing of the outer layer of food products to maintain texture, quality, and freshness. Nitrogen and carbon dioxide are primarily used for their cooling properties. Liquid nitrogen is especially effective, providing extremely low temperatures that quickly freeze the surface, creating a ‘hardened’ crust that locks in moisture and flavor. Carbon dioxide, often used in the form of dry ice or snow, similarly facilitates rapid surface freezing, preventing dehydration and protecting the structural integrity of the food during subsequent handling and storage.
Learn more about our crust freezing gases and services we offer.
Hardening or crust freezing is a process used in the food industry to rapidly freeze the outer layer of food products, creating a crust that helps maintain shape, texture, and quality during further processing or storage.
Crust freezing is important because it preserves the food’s structure, reduces moisture loss, and helps maintain the product’s quality and appearance. It also facilitates easier handling and packaging.
Common gases used in hardening or crust freezing include nitrogen (N₂) and carbon dioxide (CO₂). These gases are used due to their extremely low temperatures when liquefied, which facilitate rapid freezing.
Liquid nitrogen is used to quickly freeze the outer layer of food products by spraying or immersing them in the liquid, resulting in rapid crust formation. Its extremely low temperature (-196°C) makes it ideal for this purpose.
Carbon dioxide is used in the form of dry ice pellets or liquid CO₂ to freeze the outer layer of food products. It is effective in crust freezing due to its low temperature and ability to sublimate directly from solid to gas, providing efficient cooling.
Benefits include rapid freezing, preservation of food quality and texture, reduced moisture loss, improved shelf life, and the ability to freeze a wide variety of food products efficiently.
Safety considerations include proper handling and storage of cryogenic gases, ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent gas buildup, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and following safety protocols to prevent cold burns and asphyxiation.
Products that benefit most include seafood, meats, fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and ready-to-eat meals. Crust freezing helps maintain the quality and appearance of these products during storage and transportation.
From the first walkthrough to delivery and beyond, our team is always ready to serve.
Our gas experts walk through your setup to build systems that prioritize safety and efficiency.
No matter the volume or type of gas, our state-of-the-art labs and highly-skilled production teams deliver.
Our drivers consistently perform in high-pressure environments and champion things such as customer care, road, and onsite safety.
Stop paying rent on cylinders that aren’t in your possession. And enjoy sustainable service with less deliveries thanks to telemetry’s mobile alerts, real-time measurements, and usage trends.
The days of chasing invoices and updating billing info are gone — access your account and re-order with confidence (and ease).
Proudly supporting California’s food production with food-grade, FDA-compliant gases and exceptional service.
GET STARTED
Get in touch to learn more about how we can support your business.
