At Crystal Clean Ice, our mission is to prioritize clean ice machines. We recognize that ice is not just a refreshing beverage addition, but also a food product that is categorized as "ready to eat" by the FDA. This makes it a high-risk food because there are no additional steps, such as cooking, to eliminate potential pathogens and bacteria. Unfortunately, ice machines can provide the perfect environment for dangerous bacteria and mold to thrive, including Listeria, E. coli, Salmonella, and coliform bacteria. It is important to note that these bacteria and viruses can survive in freezing temperatures, which means they can be present in your ice cubes. According to the CDC, Listeria is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the US, particularly affecting pregnant women and newborns, as well as the elderly. That is why we have made it our mission to ensure that all ice machines are crystal clean and the ice they produce is safe for consumption by our friends and family.
The inspiration for founding Crystal Clean Ice came from our visits to numerous restaurants, bars, and hotels, where we witnessed the buildup of mold or biofilms, commonly referred to as "pink slime," on ice-making equipment. Shockingly, when we inquired about the frequency of cleaning, we received responses such as "I don't think I've ever seen it cleaned." We also noticed the same issue in the ice machines of hotels where we stayed, and we were appalled by this realization.
After conducting extensive research, we discovered that this was a widespread problem not only in the food service and hospitality industries but also in nursing homes, hospitals, churches, and any location with a standalone ice machine. Our findings were confirmed by health department inspection reports, which showed an overwhelming number of violations related to unsanitary ice-making equipment. It was then that we founded Crystal Clean Ice with a clear mission in mind: to provide safe, crystal clean ice for our loved ones to consume.
If you see this sticker at an establishment, you'll know two things: First, the ice they serve is clean and safe to consume: Second, the establishment takes food safety seriously.
At Crystal Clean Ice, we have a wealth of experience in packaged ice manufacturing, with over 15 years of experience in the industry. Throughout this journey, we gained valuable knowledge and expertise in every aspect of the packaged ice manufacturing business.
One of our key achievements was developing, implementing, and maintaining a food safety program that included maintenance and sanitation programs. This program earned us a LEVEL 2 SQF category 16 (Ice, drink, and beverage Processing) certification every year. This certification is a globally recognized standard that is HACCP-based and has a high level of accountability, focusing on sanitation and maintenance practices.
We believe that overseeing the day-to-day maintenance, sanitation, and food safety is a unique skill set in the food manufacturing industry. This experience has given us a unique perspective and understanding of how each of these disciplines should work together. We take pride in using this experience and skill set to achieve our goal of providing crystal clean and safe ice for consumption by our family and friends.
