The Ultimate Guide to 3 Gallon Tubs of Ice Cream: Everything You Need to Know
Ice cream is more than just a dessert; it’s a beloved treat enjoyed across cultures and generations. For businesses, particularly in the food service industry, having a reliable supply of ice cream in bulk can significantly enhance their dessert offerings. In this guide, we will explore the ins and outs of 3-gallon tubs of ice cream, providing insights into their types, uses, pricing, and much more.
| Type of Ice Cream | Common Flavors | Ideal For | Storage Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Ice Cream | Vanilla, Chocolate | Restaurants, Ice Cream Shops | -20°F to -10°F |
| Soft Serve | Vanilla, Strawberry | Food Trucks, Events | -20°F to -10°F |
| Gelato | Pistachio, Tiramisu | High-End Restaurants | -20°F to -10°F |
| Frozen Yogurt | Tart, Fruit Flavors | Health-Conscious Shops | -20°F to -10°F |
| Sorbet | Mango, Raspberry | Vegan and Dairy-Free Options | -20°F to -10°F |
| Custom/Private Label | Varied | Specialty Shops | -20°F to -10°F |
Understanding 3 Gallon Ice Cream Tubs
3-gallon tubs of ice cream are a popular option for many food service operations, including restaurants, ice cream shops, and event catering services. These tubs offer a perfect balance between quantity and convenience, making them ideal for businesses that serve ice cream regularly.
Types of Ice Cream in 3 Gallon Tubs
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Premium Ice Cream: Known for its rich flavor and creamy texture, premium ice cream is often made with high-quality ingredients. Brands like Perry’s Ice Cream offer a variety of flavors, perfect for those looking to treat their customers to indulgent desserts.
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Soft Serve: Soft serve ice cream is characterized by its smooth texture. It is commonly used in ice cream machines and is a favorite at fairs and food trucks.
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Gelato: Gelato is a denser and creamier Italian ice cream that is lower in air than traditional ice cream. Its rich flavors make it a favorite among gourmet establishments.
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Frozen Yogurt: A popular alternative for health-conscious consumers, frozen yogurt comes in various flavors and is often lower in fat than traditional ice cream.
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Sorbet: Dairy-free and often made from fruit purees, sorbet is a refreshing option that appeals to those with dietary restrictions.
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Custom/Private Label Options: Many suppliers allow businesses to create their own flavors and branding, providing a unique dining experience.
Benefits of Using 3 Gallon Ice Cream Tubs
Using 3-gallon tubs of ice cream offers several advantages:
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Cost-Effectiveness: Purchasing ice cream in bulk typically reduces the cost per serving, making it an economical choice for businesses.
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Variety: With a variety of flavors available, businesses can cater to diverse customer preferences.
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Ease of Storage: These tubs are designed for optimal storage, ensuring ice cream remains fresh for longer periods.
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Versatile Usage: Whether for scooping, blending into shakes, or creating signature desserts, 3-gallon tubs provide endless possibilities.
Where to Buy 3 Gallon Ice Cream Tubs
Finding the right supplier is crucial for ensuring quality and consistency. Here are some popular options:
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Perry’s Ice Cream: Available for direct online orders, Perry’s offers a range of flavors perfect for any occasion. Visit shop.perrysicecream.com for more details.
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Wells Foodservice: A supplier that provides premium ice cream options, including their well-known Blue Bunny brand. Their offerings include versatile 3-gallon tubs, which can be tailored for food service needs.
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Walmart: As a retail giant, Walmart offers various ice cream options, making it a convenient choice for individuals and businesses alike. Check their selection at www.walmart.com.
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Frozen Dessert Supplies: This supplier specializes in storage solutions, including high-quality 3-gallon tubs. They provide durable options that withstand extreme temperatures. Visit frozenessertsupplies.com for more information.
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Chef’s Resource: This site provides insights into pricing and purchasing options for bulk ice cream tubs, making it a valuable resource for businesses. Their guide can be found at www.chefsresource.com.
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Container Supply Company: Known for their food-grade containers, they offer 3-gallon tubs that are practical for storage and serving. Visit www.containersupplycompany.com for more details.
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The Cary Company: They provide various plastic containers, including 3-gallon tubs suitable for ice cream storage. More information can be found at www.thecarycompany.com.
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Sam’s Club: A go-to place for bulk purchases, Sam’s Club offers a variety of ice cream options, including 3-gallon tubs. Visit www.samsclub.com for their latest selection.
Pricing of 3 Gallon Ice Cream Tubs
The pricing for 3-gallon tubs of ice cream can vary widely depending on several factors:
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Brand: Well-known brands tend to charge a premium for their products. For example, you might find Perry’s Ice Cream priced higher than generic brands.
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Flavor: Unique or specialty flavors often come at a higher price point compared to standard options like vanilla or chocolate.
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Purchase Location: Prices may vary based on where you buy. Wholesale suppliers might offer discounts for bulk purchases, whereas retail stores may have fixed pricing.
On average, a 3-gallon tub of ice cream can cost between $30 and $50, depending on the aforementioned factors.
Technical Features of 3 Gallon Ice Cream Tubs
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | High-density polyethylene (HDPE) |
| Capacity | 3 gallons (384 fl. oz.) |
| Temperature Resistance | -36°F to 180°F |
| Durability | Resistant to cracking and shattering |
| Versatility | Suitable for ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and more |
| Closure | Options for lids available |
Conclusion
3-gallon tubs of ice cream are an essential product for many businesses in the food service industry. They provide a cost-effective way to offer a variety of ice cream flavors, ensuring that establishments can meet customer demands while maintaining quality. With numerous suppliers available, including Perry’s Ice Cream, Wells Foodservice, and Walmart, businesses can find the right product to suit their needs. Understanding the types of ice cream, pricing factors, and purchasing options will help ensure a successful ice cream program.
FAQ
What is the shelf life of a 3-gallon tub of ice cream?
The shelf life varies by product but generally ranges from 6 months to 1 year if kept at the proper temperature.
Can I freeze my ice cream tub again after it has thawed?
It is not recommended to refreeze ice cream once it has thawed, as this can lead to changes in texture and flavor.
What are the best storage conditions for 3-gallon tubs of ice cream?
Store ice cream in a freezer at temperatures between -20°F and -10°F to maintain optimal quality.
Are there vegan options available in 3-gallon tubs?
Yes, many suppliers offer vegan ice cream options, including sorbet and frozen desserts made without dairy.
How do I serve ice cream from a 3-gallon tub?
Use a sturdy ice cream scoop or spade for best results, and consider letting the tub sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping for easier serving.
What are some popular flavors for 3-gallon tubs?
Popular flavors include classic vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and unique options like pistachio and cookie dough.
Do suppliers offer custom flavors for 3-gallon tubs?
Yes, many suppliers, such as wellsfoodservice.com, allow businesses to create custom flavors or labels.
How can I ensure my ice cream remains fresh in a 3-gallon tub?
Keep the tub sealed tightly when not in use and store it in the coldest part of the freezer to maintain its quality.
Can I buy 3-gallon ice cream tubs online?
Absolutely! Many suppliers, including shop.perrysicecream.com and www.walmart.com, offer online purchasing options.
What are the benefits of buying ice cream in bulk?
Buying in bulk can save money, provide variety, and ensure that your business is always stocked with popular ice cream options.