Machine Churned or Pacotized/Scraped and Shaved

The previous chapter explains the USDA’s definitions for dairy-based types of frozen desserts. Unfortunately, there are no USDA definitions for non-dairy-based frozen desserts and they are not government regulated. These are categorized in this chapter and include sorbets, frappés, granités (or granitas), and ices.

There are a variety of definitions from various sources for these products, which could leave you more confused than informed. For example, according to one well-known dictionary, a sorbet is similar to a frappé, is usually made from fruit juice, and should have a mushy consistency. “Mushy consistency” doesn’t do much justice to the consistency of sorbets, and a frappé is in a completely different category of frozen desserts.