The effect is irresistible: a cocktail wrapped in white “smoke” spilling over the glass. The cause is dry ice — and before using it in a bar or at a party, it is worth knowing exactly what it is and what the risks are.
What dry ice is
Dry ice is not water ice: it is carbon dioxide (CO₂) in solid form, at about −78.5 °C. It does not melt — it turns straight from solid to gas (sublimation). The “smoke” you see is cold CO₂ condensing the moisture in the air.
The main risks
- Cold burns. Touching dry ice without gloves can injure the skin within seconds.
- Swallowing. This is the most serious risk. A swallowed piece of dry ice keeps releasing gas and can cause burns and serious internal injuries. Never drink a cocktail that still has solid dry ice in the glass.
- CO₂ build-up. In enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces, large amounts of dry ice can raise the CO₂ concentration in the air.
- Pressure. Kept in an airtight container, the trapped gas can make the container burst.
Basic rules if you decide to use it
- Always handle it with gloves and tongs, never with bare hands.
- Prefer to use dry ice outside the drink: in a separate container, under the glass or on a decorative plate.
- If it goes in the glass, the guest may only drink once the dry ice has completely disappeared — and must be told so.
- Ensure good ventilation and do not store it in airtight containers.
- Keep it away from children.
Safe alternatives for a memorable cocktail
- Large-format clear ice — a clear sphere or large cube gives the same premium effect with no risk.
- Smoking gun — creates aromatic smoke (wood, spices) inside a covered glass.
- Logo ice — the signature cocktail with the brand inside the cube.
- Ice luge — the show happens as the drink is served, running down through the ice.
Where to buy dry ice?
To be transparent: Iceology does not produce or sell dry ice. In Portugal it is usually supplied by industrial gas companies. What we make is premium food-grade ice — crystal-clear cubes, spheres and cocktail ice from Japanese Hoshizaki machines — plus logo ice and ice luges for events.
Find out why good ice is transparent or talk to us.
