Gel Packs or Dry Ice: What’s Best for Shipping Perishables?

Maintaining product integrity is one of the most important aspects of shipping perishable goods. When shipping food, gel packs or dry ice are popular cooling agents for keeping things within safe temperature ranges.

Figuring out if gel packs or dry ice is best for shipping perishables involves weighing both options. The right method for your products can affect costs, product safety, and customer satisfaction. Coldkeepers has experience with both cooling agents and wants to help you make the best decision.

The Importance of Temperature Control in Shipping Perishables

Perishable foods include seafood, produce, meat, and dairy. They require consistent temperature control to maintain freshness in transit. Without cooling agents, perishable goods can spoil, leading to financial losses and unhappy customers. Naturally, choosing the right cooling and insulation methods can reduce the risk of spoilage during shipping and protect perishables.

What Are Gel Packs, and How Do They Work?

Gel packs are reusable cooling agents filled with a non-toxic gel that freezes and maintains cold temperatures over time. These packs come in different sizes and are popular with food, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive goods.

Gel packs work by absorbing and retaining cold when frozen. The gel gradually releases coldness in the surrounding environment to keep surrounding things cold. 

Advantages of Using Gel Packs

Many businesses use gel packs due to their flexibility and reliability. Here are a few benefits of using them for shipping perishable goods:

• Gel packs are reusable since you can refreeze them after each use. They are cost-effective for businesses that frequently ship perishable goods. 
• Gel packs are non-toxic and don’t require special handling. There are no health or safety risks if they touch food, making them a good choice for shipping produce or prepared meals.
• Gel packs come in a wide range of temperature options, including standard gel packs and phase-change materials that stay frozen at specific temperatures. This flexibility makes them adaptable for various perishable goods.
• While gel packs are reusable, you can also dispose of them responsibly if necessary. Most gel packs contain non-toxic chemicals that are safe to discard.

Disadvantages of Using Gel Packs  

Gel packs are not ideal for all shipping needs. Here are some limitations to keep in mind:

• Gel packs keep things cool for a limited time. They may not last long enough for long shipments or those in regions with high temperatures.
• While gel packs come in different sizes, they can add weight to shipments or take up space when shipping. This may limit storage options and add to shipping costs.
• Gel packs may not provide enough coldness to keep certain perishables frozen throughout the whole journey. For items that require freezing temperatures, such as seafood or ice cream, dry ice may be a better cooling agent.

What Is Dry Ice, and How Does It Work?

Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide (CO2). Due to sublimation, it transforms directly to its gas form instead of melting into liquid. Dry ice is a great cooling agent for shipping frozen goods because it maintains extremely low temperatures.

Dry ice keeps items frozen by absorbing heat during the sublimation process. Storing dry ice in insulated containers allows it to release cold air and maintain temperatures below freezing.

Advantages of Using Dry Ice

Dry ice is a popular option when shipping perishables that require very low temperatures. Here’s why it’s an excellent choice for certain products:

• The most significant advantage of dry ice is its ability to maintain extremely low temperatures, often as low as -109.3°F (-78.5°C). It’s a good cooling agent for shipping frozen meats, seafood, and ice cream.
• Dry ice has a longer cooling period than gel packs, especially in insulated containers. It’s a good option for long trips or shipments in warm climates.
• Because dry ice turns from a solid into a gas, it leaves no liquid residue. This eliminates the risk of soggy or leaking packages upon delivery.

Disadvantages of Using Dry Ice  

Here are a few challenges of using dry ice that food shipping companies should keep in mind:

• Dry ice requires special handling due to its extremely low temperature and the risk of frostbite upon contact. There are also safety concerns about the accumulating CO2 gas in poorly ventilated spaces.
• Certain shipping carriers have strict regulations regarding dry ice. Companies may need special labels, or they might have to limit the amount of dry ice in each shipment.
• Dry ice sublimates fairly quickly, with an expected lifespan of 12–24 hours, depending on storage conditions. Long shipment times may require additional quantities of dry ice, increasing shipment costs.
• Many customers have trouble safely disposing of dry ice. The sublimation process also generates carbon dioxide gas, which can cause concerns for environmentally conscious businesses.
• Shipping with dry ice can generate condensation on the outer box most noticeable during the warmest and most humid times of the year

Factors To Consider When Choosing Between Gel Packs and Dry Ice

When deciding if gel packs or dry ice is best for shipping perishables, you should consider the following factors to determine what meets your needs:

• Always consider what you’re shipping. Produce and beverages do well with gel packs, while frozen goods (meat or ice cream) require colder temperatures from dry ice.
• Factor in packaging materials, shipping rates, and reuse potential. Gel packs are cost-effective in the long run, while dry ice has added expenses due to special handling and regulatory requirements.
• If you ship to customers or businesses unaccustomed to handling dry ice, gel packs are safer and more straightforward.
• Think about the environmental impact of your cooling method. Responsibly disposing of gel packs is a greener option than dry ice, which releases CO2 during sublimation.

Discover how Coldkeepers can revolutionize your shipping process with innovations to suit your needs. We provide the tools you need to deliver excellence with every shipment, including our Insulated Shipping Liners. Contact us today to find the perfect cooling and insulation products for your business!