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Italian ice is a frozen or semi-frozen sweetened treat made with fruit (often from concentrates, juices, or purées) or other natural or artificial food flavorings.[1][2] Italian ice is similar to sorbet and snow cones, but differs from American-style sherbet in that it does not contain dairy or egg ingredients.[1] It was introduced to the United States by Italian immigrants and is derived from the Sicilian granita, a similar and related Italian dessert.[3] Common flavors include lemon, cherry, mango, cotton candy and other fruits and sweet victuals.[4]

Italian ice

Italian ice in a paper cup
Course	Dessert
Place of origin	Italy
Main ingredients	Water, fruit (concentrate, juice or purée)
Media: Italian ice

Finely granulated flavored ice is commonly referred to and sold as water ice by residents and natives of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia metropolitan area (Delaware Valley), including South Jersey and areas of Delaware.[5] Water ice is almost identical to italian ice, as it is similarly derived from granita brought to the Mid-Atlantic United States in the 19th and 20th century as well but granita that was specifically brought to Philadelphia during this time had garnered the distinctive regional nickname. It has been described as a "variation on the more broadly-accepted Italian ice."[6] Water ice is generally sold in Philadelphia in the late spring and summer months, being one of the most popular iconic frozen desserts sold in the city by virtue of commercial chains such as Rita's Italian Ice.[7]

Nutrition

Except when made from fruit or fruit juice, Italian ice is defined in US law as a food of minimal nutritional value.[8]

See also

• Granita, a Sicilian preparation made of partially frozen water, flavorings, and sometimes sugar
• Shaved ice, a class of related but distinct desserts
• Slushy, a frozen drink made from flavored ice, similar to granitas

References

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