Dippin' Dots Cryogenics, LLC, uses the company's patented technology and equipment for applications to other industries beyond ice cream. It started in 2018 and has been used with plant-based meats, pharmaceuticals, probiotics, animal feed, and other products that require high-volume cryogenic freezing.
The new 6,000 square-foot facility is at 3865 Industrial Drive, near the company's home office on Coleman Road. The $3.2 million project has been under construction for the past nine months and will add 45 new jobs once operating at full capacity. It was designed with efficiency in mind with the goal to duplicate anywhere in the world for future growth. The expansion was announced a year ago (see related story.)
The cryogenics process uses liquid nitrogen to flash-freeze products that require high-quality standards. It's suitable as a first step for any products that need to be freeze-dried. Industries that create probiotics, bacterial cultures and plant extractions are key examples. The small pellets provide the ideal surface area for freeze drying while maintaining the integrity of the media culture.
“We’re excited about the progress we’ve made and believe there are numerous types of food products still untapped, such as companies that produce sauces or gravies for frozen meals. We’ve also developed the technology to freeze fresh cream and butter into beads that can be stored in the home freezer,” said Stan Jones, Dippin’ Dots Vice President of Development. “Another potential use of our technology is for freezing blood plasma and maintaining it at cryogenic temperatures until needed. We’re excited to license our technology to help innovate further in other industries around the globe.”
In addition to the new production facility, Dippin Dots can customize machines based on individual company needs. So far, they have provided equipment to customers in the Netherlands, South Korea and France, and they are working with customers in Brazil and Germany for various applications.
CEO Scott Fisher said the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted businesses worldwide, creating drastic changes in the market and consumer habits.
“The need for businesses to adapt with unprecedented strategic alternatives is more important than ever. We feel lucky that because of our diversification due to the cryogenics business, our brand has been able to sustain the sales hit better than anticipated,” said Fischer. “During this challenging time, we strategically supplemented our brand with the additional revenue stream from the cryogenics business. We know there’s a bright future for more applications and that it’s a win-win for Dippin’ Dots when it comes to the strength of our company.”
The pandemic and subsequent shutdown dropped demand for Dippin' Dots products and the company was forced to lay off several dozen employees in the spring. Public Relations Director Billie Stuber told West Kentucky Star that as businesses have begun to re-open, some employees have been called back.
For additional information regarding Dippin’ Dots Cryogenics, L.L.C., visit https://www.dippindots.com/cryogenics.html.
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Related story (expansion)Related story (spring layoffs)
