Anyone organising a shared lunch
You’ll need enough portions for everyone, while taking the available flavours and how you’ll transport the ice lollies into account.
Who is this guide for?
Anyone comparing pack sizes
You want to compare the number of ice lollies with their net weight: twelve mini ice lollies and twelve standard-sized ones don’t necessarily amount to the same quantity.
Groups with different tastes or dietary requirements
You’ll need to know which flavours are included and check the ingredients and allergen information before offering the pack to your guests.
What should you check?
First, work out how many portions you need, then check the net weight and flavours. If you’re taking them away for lunch, being able to keep the ice lollies cold may be the deciding factor, even before you consider the pack size.
| What to consider | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Number of portions | Count the guests and the number of ice lollies in each pack, distinguishing between mini and standard sizes. | I want everyone to be able to have an ice lolly without buying an unnecessarily large pack; around 33% of consumers would prioritise the number of portions. |
| Weight and size | Compare the net weight with the number of ice lollies to see how much each pack contains. | If packs contain ice lollies of different sizes, I want to know how much I’m taking home; around 27% of consumers would put this first. |
| Flavours and allergens | Check the flavours, ingredients and ‘may contain’ warnings on the specific pack. | I’m looking for flavours the group will enjoy, while keeping guests’ dietary requirements in mind; around 20% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| Keeping them cold | Plan the journey and work out whether you can serve the ice lollies or put them back in the freezer promptly. | If lunch is a long way from a freezer, I need to keep the ice lollies cold until serving; around 20% of consumers would make this their top priority. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Going by the number of ice lollies alone
A pack of twelve mini ice lollies doesn’t necessarily contain as much ice cream as another pack of twelve.
Check the net weight and size of the ice lollies too before choosing a pack for the group.
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Choosing an assortment without reading the label
Depending on the product, an assortment may contain different ingredients and trace warnings. Auchan’s Magnum assortment, for example, lists milk and almonds, and may contain other nuts.
Ask guests about their dietary requirements, then check the ingredients and ‘may contain’ warnings on the pack you’re buying.
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Buying the ice lollies too early before your journey
A rise in temperature can break the cold chain. The DGCCRF warns that this can increase the risks associated with food.
Pick up the ice lollies last, use an insulated bag and minimise the time before you put them back in the freezer or serve them.
Brands to know for these formats
Magnum
The range includes Classic mini ice lollies and assorted packs. Auchan, for example, lists a ten-piece assortment with Classic, Almond and White Chocolate flavours.
- An assortment with several flavours can suit a group with different tastes.
- Ingredients and trace warnings vary by product, so check the label before sharing.
Carrefour Classic'
Carrefour lists a pack of twelve chocolate and vanilla ice lollies under its Classic' brand.
- The number of ice lollies on the pack makes it easier to plan portions for your group.
- Check the ingredients and allergens for your chosen product on its product page or packaging.
MUCCI
ALDI lists a pack of twelve mini ice lollies under the MUCCI brand, with milk chocolate, white chocolate, almond and Classic flavours.
- The pack combines twelve ice lollies with several flavours.
- Check the ingredients and allergens on the specific product, especially if a guest needs to avoid almond.
Ice lollies to share from Joybuy
These packs offer individual portions to share, with different numbers of ice lollies and flavour options. Choose a size that suits your group, and check the label and how you’ll keep the ice lollies cold in transit.
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Maison de la Glace water ice lollies, 5 flavours, 12 pieces, 1 200 g
Consider this pack if you’re looking for twelve portions and a choice of flavours for the group.
Check the ingredients and allergens on the packaging before sharing.
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Magnum Mini Classic, Almond and White Chocolate, 6 pieces, 254 g
Six mini ice lollies for a small group who’d like a choice of flavours.
Before serving guests with dietary requirements, check the ingredients and nut warnings on the specific pack.
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Binggrae Melona melon ice lollies, 8 × 70 ml
Eight portions in one flavour if your group would prefer melon to an assortment.
Check the label for ingredients and information relevant to your guests.
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Binggrae Melona coconut ice lollies, 8 × 70 ml
Eight portions in one flavour, so there’s no need to decide who gets which flavour.
Check the full ingredients list and allergen information on the packaging before serving the group.
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Magnum vanilla and almond ice lollies, 8 pieces, 600 g
Eight portions of vanilla and almond for guests who enjoy this flavour.
As this product contains almond, check the group’s dietary requirements carefully and read the pack label.
Frequently asked questions
How many ice lollies should I bring for a group lunch?
First, count how many people you’re serving, then choose a pack with enough portions. Auchan lists a Magnum assortment with ten mini ice lollies; Carrefour lists twelve ice lollies in its Classic' pack, and ALDI lists twelve mini ice lollies in its MUCCI pack. The weight and flavours vary by pack.
Can you take ice lollies with you to share at lunchtime?
Yes, as long as you can keep them cold until serving or putting them back in the freezer. The DGCCRF advises keeping the time between buying them and arriving at your destination to a minimum, using an insulated bag where possible and following the temperature guidance on the packaging.
What should I check if a guest needs to avoid milk or nuts?
Read the ingredients and trace warnings on each pack you’re considering. Auchan’s product page for a Magnum assortment lists milk and almonds, and says it may contain other nuts. Don’t assume the same ingredients apply to another product; always check its own label.