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Industrial ice is essential for Australian agriculture, ensuring produce stays fresh from harvest to market. It cools crops quickly, extending shelf life by up to 30% and reducing spoilage during transport. Systems like flake ice machines produce between 300kg and 10,000kg of ice daily, catering to farms of all sizes.

Whether you're running a small family farm, managing a regional packing station, or operating a large export facility, industrial ice systems are critical infrastructure that directly impact profitability and food safety compliance. Understanding your options helps you choose the right solution for your agricultural operation.

Key Benefits of Industrial Ice for Agriculture

Preservation: Slows spoilage by maintaining optimal temperatures (-9°C to -10°C), keeping produce in peak condition for longer periods.

Transport: Keeps produce fresh over long distances, requiring approximately 3,600kg of ice per refrigerated trailer during peak harvest seasons.

Food Safety: Sealed designs reduce contamination risks and help maintain compliance with Australian food safety standards and export regulations.

Cost Efficiency: Reduces waste and energy costs, with return on investment (ROI) typically achieved in 18–24 months, while reducing spoilage losses by up to 30%.

Market Quality: Maintains visual appeal and texture of produce, supporting premium pricing and customer satisfaction in both domestic and export markets.

Choosing the right system depends on your daily ice needs, produce type, and infrastructure. Options range from compact self-contained units for small farms to large-scale solutions for export facilities. Each system is designed to meet specific agricultural cooling demands, ensuring quality and reducing waste.

1. Grant Sub Zero Flake Ice Machines (FF-AR Series)

The Grant Sub Zero Flake Ice Machines are purpose-built to meet the demanding needs of agricultural operations, particularly in preserving fresh fruits, vegetables, and other perishable produce. Designed with Australian agricultural enterprises in mind, these machines ensure consistent and reliable ice production for a variety of applications.

Coast Distributors is the exclusive Australian importer of Grant Ice Systems, ensuring you receive authentic products backed by comprehensive warranty and support.

Production Capacity and Model Range

The FF-AR Series offers a wide range of production capacities, from 400kg to 10,000kg of ice per day, making it easy to find the right fit for any operation.

Model	Daily Production	Best For
FF0.4AR	400kg	Small farms, local markets, farmers markets
FF0.6AR	600kg	Small to medium farms
FF1AR	1,000kg	Medium farms, packing stations, distribution
FF1.5AR	1,500kg	Regional operations, seasonal peaks
FF2AR	2,000kg	Large farms, commercial packing
FF2.5AR	2,500kg	Large farms, distribution centres
FF3AR	3,000kg	Large-scale commercial operations
FF5AS	5,000kg	Export facilities, major processors
FF10AS	10,000kg	Large export operations, processing plants

Smaller models, such as the FF0.4AR (400kg/day) and FF1AR (1,000kg/day), are ideal for local farms, markets, and smaller packing stations. For medium-scale operations, options like the FF1.5AR (1,500kg/day) to FF3AR (3,000kg/day) provide ample capacity. Meanwhile, large-scale enterprises can rely on the FF5AS (5,000kg/day) and FF10AS (10,000kg/day) models to meet the high-volume demands of packing houses and export facilities.

This range of capacities ensures that operations of all sizes can find a machine tailored to their specific cooling needs, whether you're handling seasonal produce peaks or maintaining year-round production.

Ice Temperature and Structure

The FF-AR Series produces flake ice at a consistent -9°C (sub-zero), with thin flakes measuring 2.0–2.5mm in thickness. This unique ice structure provides several critical benefits for agricultural use.

The flakes are dry and brittle, which makes them gentle on produce, reducing the risk of bruising compared to harder ice forms like cube or block ice. Their flexible, mouldable nature allows the ice to wrap around fruits and vegetables, ensuring even cooling and maintaining optimal temperatures throughout the product. This is especially beneficial for delicate items like berries, leafy greens, asparagus, and soft fruits that are sensitive to physical damage.

The sub-zero temperature ensures effective cooling, which helps extend the shelf life of produce while keeping it visually appealing. Additionally, the dry nature of the flakes minimises excess moisture that could lead to spoilage during storage or transport. This is particularly important for produce with short shelf lives that require rapid cooling immediately after harvest.

Suitability for Agricultural Operations

The FF-AR Series is designed to integrate seamlessly into a variety of agricultural workflows. Whether it's cooling freshly harvested produce, preparing items for transport, or maintaining storage temperatures in packing facilities, these machines deliver reliable performance across a range of applications.

Their scalable production capacity makes them suitable for both small family farms and large commercial operations. From on-farm cooling to packing stations, export facilities, and retail displays, the FF-AR Series adapts to the varying demands of agricultural operations, including seasonal peaks and tight harvest schedules.

Key applications include:

• Direct field cooling: Rapid cooling of freshly harvested produce
• Packing station operations: Continuous cooling during sorting and packaging
• Cold storage: Maintaining temperatures in export-ready containers
• Transport preparation: Pre-cooling produce before loading onto refrigerated trucks
• Retail display: Maintaining quality and appearance in retail environments

Durability and Built-In Refrigeration

Built with industrial-grade low-temperature alloy steel and featuring built-in refrigeration, the FF-AR Series is engineered to handle harsh environments while requiring minimal maintenance. The sealed evaporator design ensures durability and hygiene, featuring a stainless steel ice reamer that prevents contamination and bacterial growth.

This robust construction is particularly valuable for remote farms where access to regular maintenance may be limited. The sealed system also helps maintain food safety standards, ensuring that the ice remains clean and safe for use in direct contact with produce destined for domestic or international markets.

The built-in refrigeration system eliminates the need for external cooling infrastructure, making installation straightforward and cost-effective compared to evaporator-only models that require integration with existing systems.

Warranty and Support

Coast Distributors backs these machines with comprehensive coverage:

• 3 years warranty on parts and labour
• 5 years warranty on the evaporator (the core ice production component)

This extended coverage provides peace of mind and predictable costs for agricultural operations. Additionally, the company offers 24-hour technical support accessible at 1800 688 590, ensuring any issues are resolved quickly during critical harvest and processing periods when downtime can result in significant losses.

The company maintains warehouses in Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, ensuring rapid spare parts availability and service support across Australia.

2. Self-Contained Sub Zero Flake Ice Models

The Self-Contained Sub Zero Flake Models offer a compact, all-in-one ice production and storage solution tailored for smaller agricultural operations. Perfect for farms and remote locations, these units simplify ice production without the need for complex systems, making them a practical choice for those with limited space or specific cooling needs.

Production Capacity

These units are capable of producing 300kg of ice per day, with an integrated storage bin that holds up to 150kg of ice. This makes them ideal for smaller to mid-sized operations, such as packing stations, farmers markets, and local produce retailers.

The consistent daily ice output is especially useful for cooling delicate produce immediately after harvest. Unlike larger systems that might generate excessive ice during downtime, these models provide just the right amount for daily use, minimising waste and energy consumption.

Their plug-and-play design adds to their practicality. Farmers can easily set them up during peak harvest periods, relocate them within the property, or even transport them to temporary packing locations. This flexibility is a significant advantage over fixed installations, particularly for operations with multiple harvest sites or seasonal variation.

Ice Temperature and Structure

These models produce -9°C sub-zero flake ice, delivering the same cooling performance as larger systems. The ice is formed as thin, brittle flakes that remain dry, making them ideal for cooling delicate items like fruits and vegetables.

The mouldable flake structure ensures even cooling by wrapping around irregularly shaped produce. With a larger surface area compared to cubes or blocks, flake ice transfers heat more efficiently, rapidly bringing produce to optimal storage temperatures.

The dry nature of the flakes prevents excess moisture, which could otherwise cause spoilage during storage or transport. This feature is especially valuable for produce destined for longer journeys, such as export markets or interstate distribution, where maintaining quality is critical to market value.

Suitability for Agricultural Operations

These compact units shine in situations where mobility and adaptability are more important than high production capacity. They are particularly beneficial for:

• Farm-level packing stations: Immediate cooling for freshly harvested crops
• Farmers market operations: On-site cooling for produce display
• Small cooperative operations: Shared ice production for multiple producers
• Specialty produce: Delicate items requiring gentle handling (berries, microgreens, herbs)
• Seasonal operations: Temporary cooling solutions during peak harvest periods

Local markets and farm gate sales operations also find these units useful, as the consistent ice output helps keep produce fresh on display, reducing spoilage and waste while maintaining retail appeal.

Construction and Food Safety

Built to withstand Australian conditions, their weather-resistant design ensures reliable outdoor operation. The sealed construction protects the internal components from dust, moisture, and temperature extremes commonly found in farm environments.

Constructed with 304 stainless steel components, they are resistant to corrosion and easy to clean. The robust build ensures reliable performance even in demanding agricultural settings.

Support and Maintenance

Coast Distributors backs these units with 24-hour technical support and a comprehensive warranty. To maintain warranty coverage and ensure optimal ice quality and food safety compliance, a water filtration system is required.

The company stocks replacement parts for all models and offers maintenance guidance to ensure reliable, long-term operation. Each unit is factory-tested to guarantee reliability from the start, reducing the risk of early failures that could disrupt harvest operations.

3. Staff SPS Series (Evaporator Only Sub-Zero Flake Ice Machines)

The Staff SPS Series is designed with contractors and large-scale operations in mind, offering a practical solution for operations with existing refrigeration infrastructure. These evaporator-only units are perfect for setups that require substantial ice production while integrating seamlessly with existing refrigeration systems.

Production Capacity and Model Range

With daily ice production ranging from 950kg to 2,800kg, the Staff SPS Series is well-suited for medium to large-scale agricultural operations. This capacity is ideal for facilities like regional packing stations, produce markets, and export preparation centres that handle large volumes of fresh produce.

Model	Daily Production	Best For
SPS950	950kg	Medium operations, regional packing
SPS1300	1,300kg	Large packing stations, distribution
SPS2000	2,000kg	Large regional facilities
SPS3000	2,800kg	Major processing facilities

Unlike self-contained systems, these evaporator-only models work with existing refrigeration setups, allowing for a modular and tailored approach to cooling. Their scalability ensures that operations can select a unit that aligns with their peak harvest requirements, ensuring efficient and reliable ice production without unnecessary excess capacity.

Ice Temperature and Structure

The series produces flake ice at a consistent -10°C (slightly colder than Grant models), delivering rapid cooling that helps preserve produce by slowing down enzymatic and microbial activity. The ice is formed into thin, brittle flakes, measuring 2.0–2.5mm in thickness. These flakes are gentle enough to protect delicate produce and are easy to mould around items for even cooling.

Additionally, the ice is dry, which helps minimise excess moisture and reduces the risk of spoilage during storage or transport over long distances. The -10°C temperature provides slightly more aggressive cooling than the Grant FF-AR Series, making it particularly effective for produce that requires very rapid temperature reduction.

Suitability for Agricultural Operations

The Staff SPS Series shines in environments where large-scale ice production and custom installations are needed. Facilities like regional packing stations and export hubs benefit significantly from its ability to quickly chill produce while maintaining consistent ice quality.

Its evaporator-only design is particularly advantageous for operations that:

• Already have refrigeration systems in place
• Are incorporating ice production into larger, custom-built cooling setups
• Need to upgrade existing systems without complete replacement
• Require integration with other refrigeration equipment
• Have in-house technical expertise for installation and maintenance

The sealed evaporator design enhances food safety by reducing contamination risks, making it a dependable choice for agricultural applications where export certifications and traceability are important.

Construction and Durability

Built to withstand the tough conditions of agricultural operations, the Staff SPS Series is constructed from low-temperature alloy steel, ensuring durability in demanding environments. The sealed evaporator design not only enhances food safety but also reduces maintenance needs by protecting the system from contamination.

The robust construction and sealed design make it particularly suitable for operations in coastal regions or areas with high humidity, where corrosion and contamination risks are elevated.

Maintenance and Support

While regular checks of refrigeration systems, water filtration, and ice handling components are recommended, the core ice production mechanism requires minimal upkeep. Coast Distributors provides full technical support and spare parts, ensuring that with proper water filtration and routine maintenance, these units deliver reliable performance for the long term.

The evaporator-only design means contractors installing these systems should have technical expertise in refrigeration integration, making this option more suitable for larger operations with dedicated technical staff or established relationships with commercial refrigeration providers.

Agricultural Ice System Comparison

Choosing the right ice production system for agricultural operations involves weighing the strengths and challenges of each option. By understanding these trade-offs, operators can align system capabilities with their specific needs and ensure both efficiency and cost-effectiveness, regardless of farm size or operational demands.

Feature	Grant FF-AR Series	Self-Contained Sub Zero	Staff SPS Series
Production Capacity	400–10,000 kg/day	300 kg/day	950–2,800 kg/day
Ice Temperature	-9°C	-9°C	-10°C
Built-in Refrigeration	Yes (included)	Yes (included)	No (evaporator only)
Initial Investment	Higher upfront cost	Lower initial cost	Moderate (requires external refrigeration)
Operational Suitability	Large-scale farms, export ops	Small farms, market vendors	Custom setups, existing systems
Maintenance Requirements	Low (sealed evaporator)	Very low (integrated design)	Higher (contractor-maintained)
Setup Complexity	Moderate to high	Simple plug-and-play	Complex (requires refrigeration know-how)
Scalability	Excellent (9 models)	Limited (single model)	Good with existing infrastructure
Warranty Coverage	3 years parts/labour, 5 years evaporator	Comprehensive	Varies by installation
Best For Ice Quality	Consistent, reliable production	Quality assured, food-safe	High-volume operations
Space Requirements	Moderate to large	Compact (ideal for small ops)	Varies with refrigeration setup

Grant FF-AR Series Analysis

The Grant FF-AR Series stands out for its robust production range and industrial-grade design, which can reduce produce waste by up to 30% during peak harvests. With nine different models ranging from 400kg to 10,000kg daily production, there's an option for virtually every agricultural operation size.

However, its higher upfront costs (ranging from approximately $15,000 for entry-level models to $100,000+ for high-capacity units) and more complex installation requirements might challenge smaller operations with limited budgets. This system is best suited for large-scale farms, regional packing stations, and export operations where high output and reliability are essential to profitability.

The comprehensive 3-year/5-year warranty and built-in refrigeration reduce long-term ownership costs, making the initial investment more justifiable for operations processing thousands of tonnes of produce annually.

Self-Contained Sub Zero Flake Models

For small farms or seasonal ventures, the self-contained sub-zero flake system offers simplicity and ease of use. Its plug-and-play design and 304 stainless steel construction ensure compliance with food safety standards without the need for major infrastructure changes.

The 300kg daily production capacity aligns well with small farms, farmers market vendors, and specialty produce operations. Installation requires only standard electrical connection and water supply, making it accessible for operations without dedicated technical staff.

However, its limited capacity may fall short for operations requiring high-volume ice production, such as export preparation or large-scale packing. Farms handling more than 300kg of produce daily (after cooling) would find this system insufficient.

The lower initial investment ($8,000–$12,000) makes it ideal for testing ice cooling strategies or expanding existing operations with minimal capital outlay.

Staff SPS Series

The Staff SPS Series provides flexibility for businesses with existing refrigeration systems or those needing custom cooling solutions. Its 950kg–2,800kg daily production range fills the gap between self-contained and full-scale industrial systems.

The evaporator-only design allows tailored integration, but requires skilled installation and ongoing maintenance. This makes it a better fit for operations with access to technical expertise and existing infrastructure.

Installation costs can be significant ($50,000–$150,000+ depending on refrigeration integration complexity), making it important to have experienced contractors manage the process.

Key Performance Metrics for Agricultural Ice Systems

Modern ice systems deliver measurable economic and operational benefits:

Energy Efficiency: Modern ice systems can deliver 20–30% energy savings compared to older cooling methods, with payback periods typically ranging from 18 to 24 months.

Spoilage Reduction: Consistent ice production is especially critical during peak harvests, as up to one-third of produce can be lost without proper temperature control. Reducing waste by even 10–15% can offset annual ice system costs.

Temperature Management: Maintaining ice at -9°C to -10°C ensures optimal preservation, even in fluctuating external temperatures. For every 1°C rise in storage temperature, shelf life can decrease by 5–10% for most produce.

Transport Efficiency: Approximately 3,600kg of ice is required per refrigerated trailer during peak harvest season. Understanding this requirement helps in selecting systems with appropriate capacity.

Market Premium: Fresh, high-quality produce commands 15–30% price premiums in export markets. Industrial ice systems directly support premium positioning through superior product quality.

Installation Considerations and Infrastructure

Installation complexity varies significantly between system types:

Self-Contained Units: Straightforward and ready to use immediately, requiring only standard electrical connections (typically 3-phase power) and water supply. Ideal for operations with minimal technical resources.

Grant FF-AR Series: May require additional upgrades such as enhanced electrical capacity, concrete pad preparation, and drainage systems. Installation typically takes 1–3 weeks depending on site preparation.

Staff SPS Series: Demands precise integration with external refrigeration systems, requiring professional installation by qualified refrigeration contractors. Installation complexity depends on existing infrastructure but typically takes 2–6 weeks.

Water Filtration and Food Safety Compliance

Proper water filtration is essential for all ice systems, particularly for produce destined for domestic retail or export markets. Coast Distributors recommends consulting with their technical team about appropriate filtration systems for your specific operation.

Poor water quality can lead to:

• Scale buildup reducing ice production by 10–20%
• Contamination risks affecting food safety compliance
• Equipment damage requiring costly repairs
• Voided warranty coverage

All ice systems require proper water treatment to maintain food safety certifications and warranty protection.

Seasonal Demand Planning and Capacity Selection

Agricultural operations experience significant seasonal variation in cooling requirements. Strategic capacity planning ensures you have adequate ice production during peak harvest periods without excessive waste during off-season:

Peak Season Planning: Calculate daily cooling needs at peak harvest volume, then select a system with 1.5× capacity. For example, if peak season requires 1,000kg of ice daily, choose a system rated for 1,500kg.

Flexibility Options: The Grant FF-AR Series' range of nine models allows selecting a system precisely matched to peak needs without overpaying for unused capacity.

Dual-System Strategy: Some large operations use both self-contained units (for emergency backup or remote locations) and larger systems for primary production.

Environmental and Sustainability Considerations

Modern industrial ice systems offer environmental benefits aligned with growing consumer and retailer preferences for sustainable farming:

Reduced Food Waste: By extending shelf life by 20–30%, ice systems directly reduce environmental impact from spoilage.

Energy Efficiency: Sub-zero flake ice systems use 30–40% less energy than conventional freezing methods for equivalent cooling.

Water Usage: Flake ice systems use significantly less water than block ice or other cooling methods, an important consideration in water-stressed regions.

Refrigerant Technology: Modern systems use environmentally responsible refrigerants meeting Australian environmental standards.

Conclusion: Selecting the Right Industrial Ice System for Your Operation

Choosing the best industrial ice solution for agricultural operations hinges on understanding your specific needs, operational scale, and priorities. The Grant FF-AR Series stands out with its –9°C sub-zero flake ice production and sealed evaporator design, making it suitable for a range of setups, from small-scale farms to large export facilities.

Each system is designed to address particular operational demands:

For Smaller Operations or New Users: The Self-Contained Sub Zero Flake Models offer a simple, plug-and-play solution. With a daily production capacity of 300kg, they are ideal for local vendors, farmers market operations, or farm-level facilities.

For Large-Scale Operations with Existing Infrastructure: The Staff SPS Series serves operations with existing refrigeration systems or those requiring custom cooling setups. While installation and maintenance may demand more technical expertise, this series offers the flexibility needed for larger-scale operations seeking tailored solutions.

For Delicate Produce Requiring Gentle Handling: Sub-zero flake ice provides gentle, mouldable cooling that helps preserve freshness and quality during transport and display. Its ability to conform to the shape of produce minimises damage and extends shelf life.

Scale is another critical factor. High-volume operations, especially during peak harvests, should aim for machines with at least a 1.5× safety margin above their calculated daily needs. This is crucial, as up to one-third of harvested produce can be lost to spoilage without proper cooling. Investing in sufficient capacity can significantly reduce waste and improve overall efficiency.

The financial benefits are compelling. Modern ice systems can cut energy costs by 20–30%, with payback periods typically between 18 and 24 months. When combined with the potential to reduce produce waste by up to 30% during peak harvests, the return on investment becomes even more appealing.

Practical considerations such as space requirements, energy efficiency, ease of maintenance, and water filtration are essential when making a final decision. Coast Distributors offers 24-hour technical support and comprehensive warranties including 5-year evaporator protection on Grant systems, ensuring peace of mind for remote agricultural operations where downtime can result in significant losses.

As Australia's exclusive importer of Grant Ice Systems, Staff, Ice-O-Matic, and Follett equipment, Coast Distributors brings over 40 years of industry experience and nationwide warehouse support to help you find the ideal solution.

Whether you're cooling freshly harvested vegetables, preparing produce for export, or ensuring quality during long-distance transport, selecting the right ice solution enhances efficiency and profitability. By aligning system capabilities with your agricultural needs, you can maintain consistent quality from harvest to market.

FAQs: Industrial Ice Systems for Agriculture

How can industrial ice systems improve the cost efficiency of agricultural operations?

Industrial ice systems, like the Grant FF-AR Series, are transformative for agricultural operations looking to cut costs and improve efficiency. These systems produce sub-zero flake ice at exact temperatures, which helps maintain the freshness and visual appeal of fruits and vegetables. The result is longer shelf life and less spoilage.

By reducing waste, farmers can minimise losses and even increase the market value of their produce, leading to higher sales. Modern systems deliver 20–30% energy savings, with payback periods of just 18–24 months. On top of that, these systems are built to last, with durable sealed evaporators and low-maintenance designs that ensure consistent performance over the long haul. It's a smart investment for farms and packing facilities aiming for reliability and cost savings.

What daily ice production capacity do I need for my farm or operation?

Calculating required ice production depends on several factors:

1. Type of produce: Delicate items require more aggressive cooling; hardy produce needs less
2. Harvest volume: Calculate total daily harvest weight
3. Cooling requirement: As a rule, expect 3–5kg of ice per 10kg of produce for effective cooling
4. Transport distance: Longer distances require more ice for temperature maintenance
5. Seasonal variation: Design for peak season needs, not average needs

For example, a farm harvesting 2,000kg of berries daily requiring rapid cooling might need 1,000–1,500kg of ice daily. In this case, a FF2.5AR (2,500kg/day) would provide appropriate capacity with safety margin.

Contact Coast Distributors at 1800 688 590 for customised capacity recommendations based on your specific operation.

How does sub-zero flake ice help maintain quality and shelf life during transport?

Sub-zero flake ice is specifically designed to keep delicate fruits and vegetables fresh while maintaining their visual appeal. Produced at -9°C to -10°C with a thin, brittle texture (2.0–2.5mm), it wraps gently around produce, offering effective cooling without risking bruising or damage.

This specialised ice plays a key role in maintaining ideal temperatures during transport, helping to extend shelf life by slowing enzymatic activity and microbial growth. By keeping goods fresh and visually attractive for retail displays, it not only enhances sales potential but also significantly reduces waste.

The dry nature of flake ice (compared to water-based cooling methods) prevents excess moisture that could cause deterioration during long transport periods, making it ideal for interstate and international shipments.

What warranty and support does Coast Distributors provide for Grant ice machines?

Coast Distributors backs Grant ice systems with industry-leading warranty coverage:

• 3 years warranty on parts and labour for complete systems
• 5 years warranty on the evaporator (core ice production component)
• 24-hour technical support available at 1800 688 590
• Multiple warehouse locations in Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth for rapid spare parts availability
• Factory-tested equipment ensuring reliability from day one
• Maintenance guidance and technical expertise from experienced professionals

This comprehensive support ensures that your investment remains protected and operational, even during critical harvest periods when downtime can be costly.

Is water filtration really necessary for ice machines?

Yes, water filtration is essential and required to maintain warranty coverage on all ice systems. Poor water quality leads to:

• Scale buildup that reduces ice production by 10–20%
• Potential food safety contamination issues
• Equipment damage requiring expensive repairs
• Warranty voidance if proper filtration isn't maintained

Coast Distributors offers appropriate filtration systems designed specifically for agricultural ice applications. Proper filtration also extends system lifespan by 5–10 years and maintains consistent ice quality.

How long does it take to recover the investment in an industrial ice system?

Most agricultural operations recover their investment in 18–24 months through:

1. Reduced spoilage losses: 20–30% reduction in waste directly translates to increased profit
2. Energy savings: 20–30% reduction in cooling costs
3. Market premiums: Higher quality produce commands 15–30% price premiums in export markets
4. Operational efficiency: Reduced labour hours for manual cooling methods

For example, a farm reducing spoilage from 25% to 15% on 50,000kg annual production gains 5,000kg of saleable product, potentially worth $5,000–$15,000 depending on commodity prices and markets.

What produces benefits most from industrial ice cooling?

Produce most responsive to ice cooling includes:

• Berries: Highly perishable; ice extends shelf life from 3–5 days to 10–14 days
• Leafy greens: Rapid cooling maintains crispness and colour; 20–30% shelf life extension
• Stone fruits: Prevents ripening issues and extends marketable window
• Asparagus and green vegetables: Maintains texture and colour for export compliance
• Fresh herbs: Prevents wilting and maintains visual appeal

Hardier produce (potatoes, squash, root vegetables) benefits less from aggressive ice cooling but still benefits from temperature maintenance during transport.

Can I integrate an ice system into an existing packing operation?

Absolutely. Coast Distributors offers systems designed for integration into existing operations:

• Self-contained units require only electrical and water connections and can be positioned within packing facilities
• Grant FF-AR Series includes refrigeration, simplifying integration
• Staff SPS Series is designed specifically for integration with existing refrigeration

Coast Distributors' technical team advises on optimal placement, infrastructure requirements, and implementation timelines for your specific operation. Contact 1800 688 590 or email sales@coastdistributors.com.au for personalised consultation.

Coast Distributors is Australia's exclusive importer of Grant Ice Systems, Staff, Ice-O-Matic, and other leading ice machine manufacturers. With over 40 years of experience serving agricultural, commercial, and industrial sectors, we provide comprehensive ice cooling solutions backed by 24-hour technical support and warranty protection. Our warehouses in Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth ensure rapid service and parts availability nationwide.

Whether you're managing a small family farm or a large export facility, Coast Distributors has the expertise, equipment, and support to help you maintain peak produce quality from harvest to market. Contact us today at 1800 688 590, visit our website, or request a consultation to discuss your agricultural cooling needs.