For those wanting to watch their weight and cholesterol without having to sacrifice on taste, there is a cold ice treat that offers an alternative to the traditional ice creams and popsicles on the market called Italian Ice. Dating back to the 17th century, although its location of origin is still one of the biggest mysteries of all, this frozen treat has offered satisfaction to the masses from Europe to Asia to North America.

At times referred to as water ice, Italian ice is a very popular dessert. It is sweetened and made with fruit concentrates, purees or juices, and other natural or artificial flavorings, very similar to sorbet. Not made from flavored ice or shaved bits of ice, in spite of what the name implies. However, it is prepared by a technique similar to the way ice cream is made, which consists of combining ingredients while they are being frozen. While it could sometimes contain egg whites, ices contain no dairy substances like sherbet does. With so many flavors including watermelon, lemon, orange, cherry, raspberry and more, you're certain to find a flavor of Italian ice you will adore. The coloring from the particular flavor picked will turn the consumer's tongue that color.

While coming in several forms, this tasty treat also has many functions. It can serve the purpose to cleanse a persons palate between meals, provide refreshing and cool relief on a humid and hot day, and be enjoyed as a light yet delicious dessert. It comes in forms including the traditional Italian treat of ice, sorbet, snow cones and even granita. Not like a more typical snow cone, which has the flavorings pour on top, the ices will be blended and have a more consistent delicious texture. Sorbet is a bit smoother because its whipped without air. Much more granular in consistency, granita while similar is obviously different from Italian ice.

Selected flavorings, water and pure cane sugar are the three basic ingredients of the ices which are blended together to create this fantastic dessert. They contain no dairy products and are also cholesterol-free and fat-free plus contain no high fructose corn syrup. While the United States are more health conscious, this is an attractive treat for the majority of of the population.

Many people enjoy Italian ices as a way to escape the summer heat and get frozen, yummy relief, even though some enjoy consuming this treat year-round, just as they would with popsicles, ice cream or another frozen delicacies. Able to be sold in lots of locations from push carts, kiosks and concession stands, these cool treats can be found anywhere from stadiums to parks to the favorite amusement parks. Besides its obvious benefits for the consumer, these frozen delights can also be advantageous for vendors that are looking to make some extra money by selling them.

To find out more details about Italian ice, along with how to get involved in retailing these dessert products, go online and take a look around. Beat the heat, beat the scale and experience some tasty cold Italian confections. There is no better time to treat the employees or perhaps get to started with your own cold ice business that will make every buyer smile. Let's not forget, you're able to obtain Italian ice at your local food store to be able to enjoy anytime at home for any type of weather.