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When Did Ice Cream Stop Coming in Boxes?

Published in Ice Cream Packaging 3 mins read

Ice cream largely stopped coming in traditional boxes and transitioned to round tubs during the 90s. This shift marked a significant change in how ice cream was packaged and presented to consumers.

The Evolution of Ice Cream Packaging: From Boxes to Tubs

Historically, ice cream was indeed sold in boxes, often rectangular or square cardboard containers. This packaging was common for a considerable period, serving its purpose for storage and transport. However, as consumer preferences and manufacturing techniques evolved, the industry began to explore more practical and consumer-friendly packaging solutions.

The pivotal period for this change was the 90s. During this decade, ice cream manufacturers began phasing out the box format in favor of the now-ubiquitous round shape. This transition wasn't an abrupt stop but rather a gradual shift that saw the market increasingly dominated by cylindrical containers.

Why the Shift to Round Tubs?

The move away from boxes to round tubs was driven by several practical advantages and consumer benefits:

  • Ease of Scooping: One of the primary reasons for the preference for round containers is the ease of scooping. A round shape allows for a smoother, more natural motion when scooping ice cream, reducing the likelihood of hitting hard corners and making it easier to get a full, satisfying scoop.
  • Reduced Freezer Burn: While not explicitly stated in the reference, round containers can sometimes offer better protection against freezer burn, as there are no sharp corners where air pockets might easily form, which can degrade the ice cream's quality.
  • Perceived Freshness and Quality: For many consumers, round tubs have become synonymous with premium, high-quality ice cream, potentially due to the ease of access and the aesthetic appeal.
  • Manufacturing and Handling: Modern machinery often handles cylindrical shapes more efficiently for filling, sealing, and labeling, which can streamline the production process.

Packaging Evolution at a Glance

The table below summarizes the key differences and transition period for ice cream packaging:

Packaging Type Era Key Characteristics / Advantages
Box (Rectangular/Square) Pre-1990s Traditional form factor; efficient for stacking and storage in some retail freezers.
Round Tub (Cylindrical) Phased in during the 90s Facilitates easier scooping; often perceived as more premium; efficient for modern production lines.

In summary, while ice cream certainly used to be available in boxes, the 1990s marked the decade when this form of packaging was phased out, making way for the round tubs that are standard today, largely due to their enhanced user experience and practical benefits.