The festive December holidays in South Africa is a time for sunshine, braais, and beach trips, but the heat can pose a challenge when it comes to keeping food and drinks cold.
If you’re hosting a family gathering or heading to a picnic, here are some tips and tricks to help your perishables stay fresh and beverages refreshing even on the hottest days.
1. Use Dry Ice for Superior Cooling
Dry ice is an excellent option for keeping items cold during the holidays. Unlike regular ice, it doesn't melt into water, reducing mess and keeping food dry.
Dry ice maintains an extremely cold temperature of -78.5°C, making it perfect for transporting meat, frozen desserts, and perishables for outdoor events, beach picnics, or braais.
When using dry ice, remember to handle it with gloves and store it in a well-ventilated cooler or container. Avoid placing dry ice directly on drinks as it can cause extreme cold burns. A layer of cardboard or insulation between the dry ice and your items will provide even cooling and help prevent freezer burn on food.
2. Invest in High-Quality Coolers
A solid cooler box with good insulation is a must-have during the South African summer. Look for coolers with thick walls, a reliable seal, and ample capacity. For longer trips or bigger gatherings, consider investing in coolers with wheels for easy transportation.
Adding a layer of dry ice at the bottom or on top of your items can extend cooling times significantly. Pre-chill your cooler by placing dry ice inside it an hour or two before use; this helps maintain cold temperatures longer.
3. Use a Portable Fridge-Freezer
A portable fridge-freezer is a fantastic solution for those who frequently camp, travel, or enjoy outdoor entertaining during the holidays. Many models operate on 12-volt systems, making them suitable for car trips.
These fridge-freezers offer precise temperature control, ensuring that your perishable foods and beverages remain at optimal conditions for hours or even days. Keep in mind that you'll need a power source, such as a portable battery, solar charger, or access to electricity, for continued operation.
4. Keep Ice Cubes Handy
While dry ice offers unmatched cooling, having a stash of regular ice cubes can be convenient for chilling drinks quickly. You can pre-make ice cubes in bulk or buy large bags from stores.
Pack them in separate cooler compartments with drinks to avoid excessive melting and keep a backup stash to replenish as needed.
5. Use Shade and Insulation
The South African sun can be intense, so keep coolers, food containers, and drinks in the shade as much as possible. Insulated picnic bags and reflective covers can further reduce heat absorption, maintaining low temperatures for extended periods.
6. Layer Food and Drinks Properly
For efficient cooling, layer food and drinks wisely inside your cooler. Place heavier and non-essential items on the bottom and keep frequently needed drinks and snacks at the top. This minimizes frequent opening, which allows warm air inside and reduces cooling efficiency.
By using dry ice, high-quality coolers, ice packs, and smart packing methods, you can be sure your food and drinks remain fresh and cold during the December holidays. Enjoy your festive gatherings and snacks, knowing your refreshments are perfectly chilled!