The ecological transition in the ice cream industry: the sustainable choice of Ifi ice cream display cabinets with R290 Gas
At the heart of the ecological transition that is revolutionising numerous industrial sectors, the ice cream parlour world is pioneering a decisive change towards sustainability. With the aim of responding to European regulations on energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact, Ifi's Milia and Sam80 ice cream display cabinets have also adopted the natural refrigerant gas R290 (propane), creating a range of even more ecological and high-performance products. This is an anticipatory choice with respect to the deadlines set by European directives, which consolidates Ifi's commitment to ice cream that is not only good, but also environmentally friendly.
Benefits of choosing R290 Gas
The switch to R290 natural gas, one of the most environmentally friendly alternatives among refrigerants, brings numerous advantages. While helping to comply with European regulations, it also brings tangible benefits in terms of performance and cost savings for ice cream parlours. Among the main advantages of using R290 are:
Reduced energy consumption: The adoption of R290 gas reduces the energy consumption of the showcases by 10% to 20%, translating into significant savings on the electricity bill.
Less gas used: Propane, being a natural gas, has a reduced impact on global warming compared to other refrigerants, contributing to a decrease in the greenhouse effect.
Longer compressor life: R290 gas contributes to a longer compressor life, reducing maintenance costs and ensuring greater long-term reliability.
Noise reduction: Natural gas reduces the noise generated by the machine, improving acoustic comfort for both operators and customers, creating a more pleasant environment.
Reduction in energy consumption:
10% to 20% reduction in energy consumption of shop windows
European Directives supporting sustainability
The switch to R290 gas is part of European regulations aimed at reducing the environmental impact of refrigerated equipment. In particular, two key directives are driving the change in the ice cream sector:
Ecodesign Directive and Energy Label: With the introduction of Directives 2009/125/EC and 2010/30/EU, the European Union stipulated that, as of 1 September 2023, all refrigerated display cabinets placed on the market must belong to energy class F or higher, accompanied by the Energy Label. This legislation aims to raise consumer awareness of the energy efficiency of products, encouraging more conscious and sustainable choices. Ifi has responded to this directive by adopting R290 gas and optimising the internal components of its products.
F-gas Directive: Another important piece of legislation is EU Regulation 2024/573, which will come into force on 1 January 2025, banning the placing on the market of refrigerated display cabinets with on-board motors that use environmentally harmful fluorinated gases. In response to this legislation, Ifi has anticipated the change by adopting R290 gas in all its models with on-board motors, ensuring an environmentally friendly choice that complies with future regulations.