Hosts counting out portions
If you’ve invited several friends, the number of ice lollies in the box helps you work out how many everyone can have. E.Leclerc, for example, lists a 20-piece SMICY selection.
Who are these pack sizes for?
Groups with different tastes
A selection can bring several recipes together in one box. Magnum’s mini ice lolly selection includes Classic, Almond and White Chocolate; choose the pack size and flavours to suit your group.
Hosts who check ingredients
Before serving, check the allergens on each pack. The Carrefour products reviewed list milk and, depending on the recipe, soya or almonds. Also follow the storage instructions on the packaging.
What should you look for?
Start by working out how many portions you need, then choose between a selection of flavours and a box of one flavour. Check the ingredients and storage instructions on the pack you buy before serving.
| What to consider | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Number of portions | Count the ice lollies in the box and the people you’re serving. Don’t confuse the number of pieces with the total weight. | I’m having several friends over and want to offer everyone an ice lolly without buying multiple boxes; around 46% of consumers would put the number of portions first. |
| Flavours and sizes | Check which recipes are included in the box and how big the ice lollies are. | I’d rather offer a choice of flavours or smaller portions than just one recipe; around 27% of consumers would make variety their top priority. |
| Ingredients and storage | Read the allergen information on the exact pack you’re buying and follow its storage instructions. | If a guest needs to avoid certain ingredients, I check the label and make sure the ice lollies stay frozen; around 27% of consumers would put these precautions first. |
Mistakes to avoid
-
Assuming a selection will suit every guest
Ingredients vary from one recipe to another. Carrefour lists milk, soya and almonds for the Carrefour Extra selection reviewed; other products may warn that they contain traces of nuts.
Check the allergens on the boxes you plan to serve, and have an alternative ready if a guest needs one.
-
Leaving ice lollies out while you shop
It’s important to keep them cold between the shop and serving time too, as the DGCCRF points out.
Pick up frozen products at the end of your shop, take them home promptly and follow the storage instructions on the packaging.
Brands and ranges to compare
SMICY / Marque Repère E.Leclerc
An option for serving a group from a box with plenty of ice lollies.
- E.Leclerc lists a 20-piece, 850 g SMICY selection.
- For this product, E.Leclerc advises checking availability with the store. Also check the recipes on the box.
Carrefour Simpl / Carrefour Extra
Two ranges to consider if you prefer mini ice lollies.
- Carrefour lists boxes of eight mini ice lollies in both ranges.
- The recipes reviewed contain milk; the Carrefour Extra one also contains soya and almonds. Check the label on the product you choose.
Magnum
A mini selection to consider if you’d like a box with Classic, Almond and White Chocolate.
- Magnum lists these three recipes in a selection of six 55 ml mini ice lollies.
- For the selection reviewed, Carrefour warns that it may contain almonds or pistachios. Check the pack you buy.
Auchan
A range where you can compare different types of individual ice creams before choosing what to serve.
- The Auchan range includes ice lollies, mini ice lollies and frozen bars.
- Check the number of pieces and ingredients for each product. These categories don’t necessarily represent the same portion size.
MUCCI / ALDI
Another mini ice lolly range to consider when serving a group.
- ALDI lists a box of 12 MUCCI mini ice lollies, weighing 429 g.
- Check the relevant catalogue and store before counting on this product for your get-together.
Ice lollies and sorbets on Joybuy
These boxes of four or eight individual ice lollies let you choose a pack size to suit the number of guests. Compare the flavours and check the ingredients on each pack before serving.
Image unavailable
Binggrae Melona Melon Ice Bar, 8 × 70 ml
A box to consider if you’re planning to serve your guests eight individual melon ice lollies.
Check the ingredients on the pack and follow its storage instructions.
Image unavailable
POP FRUIT Sorbet Sticks 100% Coconut, 4 × 70 g
Four coconut sorbet sticks for a small group, or to add another flavour to the table.
The box states a total weight of 280 g. Check the label for allergen and storage information.
Image unavailable
Binggrae Melona Banana Ice Cream Bar, 8 × 70 ml
Eight individual banana ice lollies, if this flavour is right for your group.
Before serving, check the allergens and storage instructions on the pack.
Image unavailable
Binggrae Melona Coconut Ice Cream Bar, 8 × 70 ml
A box of eight individual coconut ice lollies to consider if you’re planning to offer this flavour to your guests.
Check the label for allergen information and storage instructions specific to this product.
Frequently asked questions
How many ice lollies should I get for coffee with friends?
Start with one per person, then add a few extra if you’d like to offer everyone a second choice. The number of pieces on the box helps you plan how to serve them.
Which allergens should I check before serving ice lollies?
Read the label on each pack you buy, as ingredients vary between recipes. Carrefour lists milk, soya and almonds for the Carrefour Extra selection reviewed; its Magnum selection reviewed may contain almonds and pistachios.
How should I transport ice lollies after shopping?
Pick up frozen products at the end of your shop and put them in the freezer as soon as possible, following the instructions on the packaging. The DGCCRF highlights the importance of keeping them cold until they’re served.
Should I follow the date on the pack if the ice lollies have stayed frozen?
Yes. Follow the date and storage instructions on the pack. The Ministry of the Economy advises keeping products at the storage temperature stated on the packaging.