Your Delivery & Food Safety Guide
At ICON Meals, we're dedicated to delivering your delicious, high-quality meals safely and efficiently. This guide provides important information about dry ice and ensuring your meals are perfect upon arrival.
Understanding Dry Ice
Your ICON Meals delivery, when shipped via our standard methods, is packed with dry ice to keep your meals frozen solid during transit. Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide and is extremely cold. It doesn't melt into a liquid; instead, it dissipates (or sublimates) directly into a gas.
It's completely normal if no dry ice remains in your box upon arrival. We've designed our shipments for the dry ice to dissipate completely by the time it reaches you, leaving nothing for you to discard.
Please Note: For meals that are locally distributed or picked up at our retail locations within the DFW area, dry ice is typically not used. These meals are kept under continuous refrigeration until they are picked up or delivered.
Important Dry Ice Safety
1
NEVER Touch Bare-Handed
Its extreme cold (-109°F) can cause severe frostbite. Always use insulated gloves or tongs to handle any remaining pieces.
2
Ensure Good Ventilation
Dry ice releases CO₂ gas. Handle in an open area to prevent gas buildup, which can displace oxygen and cause breathing difficulty.
3
Proper Disposal
Allow any leftovers to dissipate completely in a well-ventilated area. Do not put it in sinks, toilets, or trash cans.
4
DO NOT Seal in Containers
The pressure from the dissipating gas can cause an airtight container to rupture or explode, creating a physical hazard.
5
DO NOT Consume
Dry ice is not for ingestion and is extremely dangerous if swallowed. Keep out of all food and drinks.
6
Keep From Children & Pets
Always supervise children and pets around packages that may contain dry ice. Store it in a secure, out-of-reach location.
Critical Food Temperature Check
Regardless of whether dry ice is present, the most important safety step is checking your food's temperature if it's not completely frozen upon arrival.
- SAFE: 40°F (4.4°C) or Less
If the internal temperature is 40°F or below, your food is safe. Place it in the refrigerator or freezer immediately. - UNSAFE: Above 40°F (4.4°C)
If the temperature is above 40°F, please DO NOT consume the food. For your safety, dispose of the meals.
What to Do if Your Food is Above 40°F
If your meals arrive with a temperature above 40°F, please contact us immediately for support. Our team is here to help: