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Italian ice vs 'Water ice'?

How is Hermanas Italian ice different from other frozen treats? Read about the Hermanas real fruit difference.


Italian ice, also known as "water ice," is a frozen dessert that is popular in various parts of the world, particularly in the United States. Most Italian or water ices are typically made by blending water, sugar, and flavorings together and freezing the mixture. Italian ice has a smooth and granular texture, similar to sorbet, and comes in a wide range of flavors such as lemon, cherry, raspberry, mango, and many more.


Water ice, as the name suggests, is made primarily from water, sugar, and artificial flavorings. It is often served in a semi-frozen state, giving it a slushy texture. The flavors of water ice can be similar to Italian ice, but the texture tends to be less smooth and more icy.

Hermanas’ real-fruit Italian ice stands apart from typical "water ice" due to its focus on using real fruit as a primary ingredient. While traditional water ice often relies on artificial flavorings or syrups, our Italian ice incorporates fresh or pureed fruits into the recipe.


Snow Cones, also known as shaved ice, are made by shaving or crushing ice and then adding flavored syrups on top. The ice crystals in snow cones are typically larger and crunchier compared to Italian ice or water ice.

Slushies and slurpees are very similar to snow cones in terms of their preparation.


They are made by blending ice with flavored syrups, resulting in a slushy consistency. The main difference between slurpees and slushies is that "Slurpee" is a trademarked name used by the convenience store chain 7-Eleven.

Gelato, on the other hand, is an Italian frozen dessert similar to ice cream but with a lower butterfat content and less air incorporated during the churning process. Gelato has a rich and creamy texture and is often served at slightly warmer temperatures than ice cream.

When it comes to Hermanas real-fruit Italian ice compared to the other frozen treats mentioned, the benefit lies in the use of real fruit as a primary ingredient. Real-fruit Italian ice is made by incorporating fresh or pureed fruits into the mixture, giving it a more authentic and intense fruit flavor. This makes it a popular choice for individuals who prefer natural and vibrant fruit flavors over artificial ones.



Water ice, snow cones, slushies, and slurpees, on the other hand, typically use artificial flavorings or syrups to achieve their taste. While these frozen treats can be enjoyable, Hermanas real-fruit Italian ice offers a more genuine fruit experience due to the presence of real fruit in the recipe. The use of real fruit also provides additional nutritional benefits, such as vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.


The Hermanas Real-Fruit Difference

By using real fruit, Hermanas creates a more authentic and intense fruit flavor in our Italian ice. The natural sweetness and vibrant taste of the fruits shine through, providing a delightful and refreshing experience. You can expect to enjoy the distinct flavors of real strawberries, lemons, blueberries, raspberries, mangoes, or any other fruit we use in our Italian ice.


In contrast, traditional water ice may rely on artificial flavorings and sweeteners to achieve its taste. While still enjoyable, these artificial ingredients can sometimes impart a slightly artificial or generic fruit flavor.


Hermanas is the healthier treat option of all!



Hermanas’ real-fruit Italian ice offers the added nutritional benefits that come from using real fruit. Fruits are a rich source of essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. By incorporating them into our Italian ice, we provide a frozen treat that not only tastes great but also contributes to a healthier snack option.


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