10.1 Slush Mix Calculations

# 10.1 Slush Mix Calculations

**Version:** V2
**Last Updated:** October 2025
**Document Type:** Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

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## Purpose

To ensure consistent slush drink quality, correct syrup-to-water ratios, and accurate batch calculations across all Little Coffee Bean Co locations.

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## Scope

This procedure applies to all staff responsible for preparing and mixing slush batches at mobile Tuk Tuk units and fixed shop locations.

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## Equipment Required

– Measuring jug (calibrated, minimum 5-litre capacity)
– Slush syrup concentrate
– Filtered or bottled water
– Stirring rod or paddle
– Thermometer (0–50°C range)
– Funnel
– Clean cloth or paper towels
– Slush machine reservoir

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## Slush Mix Ratios

Little Coffee Bean Co offers three standard mixing ratios to suit different flavour intensities and customer preferences. All ratios use **syrup concentrate to water** proportions.

### Ratio 1: 5:1 (Standard Sweetness)

**Best for:** Regular customers, standard flavour intensity, balanced taste

**Calculation:** Water volume = Syrup volume × 5

### Ratio 2: 6:1 (Lighter Sweetness)

**Best for:** Health-conscious customers, extended serving periods, subtle flavour

**Calculation:** Water volume = Syrup volume × 6

### Ratio 3: 7:1 (Light Sweetness)

**Best for:** Sugar-conscious customers, premium dilution, extended shelf life

**Calculation:** Water volume = Syrup volume × 7

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## Step-by-Step Mixing Procedure

### Step 1: Select Ratio

1. Determine which ratio to use based on customer demand and preference
2. Confirm ratio selection with store manager if unsure
3. Record ratio used on batch log (see Quality Control section)

### Step 2: Measure Syrup Concentrate

1. Pour syrup concentrate into measuring jug
2. Fill to the marked line for your chosen volume
3. Check measurement at eye level to ensure accuracy
4. Do not overfill—excess syrup affects flavour balance

### Step 3: Measure Water

1. Add water to a separate measuring jug
2. Calculate water volume using the ratio formula:
– **5:1 ratio:** Water = Syrup × 5
– **6:1 ratio:** Water = Syrup × 6
– **7:1 ratio:** Water = Syrup × 7
3. Measure water at eye level for accuracy
4. Use filtered or bottled water only (tap water may contain chlorine affecting taste)

### Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Pour syrup concentrate into the slush machine reservoir
2. Slowly add measured water while stirring continuously
3. Stir for minimum 2 minutes to ensure complete mixing
4. Check for any undissolved syrup particles at bottom of reservoir
5. If particles remain, continue stirring until fully dissolved

### Step 5: Check Temperature and Consistency

1. Allow mixture to cool to 4–8°C (refrigeration/freezing cycle)
2. Use thermometer to verify temperature before service
3. Mixture should be smooth with no visible particles
4. Consistency should be pourable but with slight viscosity

### Step 6: Activate Slush Machine

1. Ensure mixture is at correct temperature before switching on
2. Turn on slush machine according to equipment manual
3. Allow 15–20 minutes for initial freezing cycle
4. Check consistency after first cycle—should be partially frozen, slushy texture

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## Batch Calculations Reference

### Quick Reference: Common Batch Sizes

**For 5:1 Ratio:**
– 500ml syrup → 2.5 litres water = 3 litres total
– 750ml syrup → 3.75 litres water = 4.5 litres total
– 1 litre syrup → 5 litres water = 6 litres total

**For 6:1 Ratio:**
– 500ml syrup → 3 litres water = 3.5 litres total
– 750ml syrup → 4.5 litres water = 5.25 litres total
– 1 litre syrup → 6 litres water = 7 litres total

**For 7:1 Ratio:**
– 500ml syrup → 3.5 litres water = 4 litres total
– 750ml syrup → 5.25 litres water = 6 litres total
– 1 litre syrup → 7 litres water = 8 litres total

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## Quality Control Standards

### Visual Checks

– Mixture is uniform colour (no streaking or separation)
– No visible syrup particles or residue
– Colour matches expected shade for chosen flavour
– No cloudiness or discolouration

### Taste Profile

– Flavour intensity matches selected ratio
– No overly sweet or watered-down taste
– Smooth consistency when served
– No grittiness or texture issues

### Temperature

– Mixture reaches 4–8°C before service
– Slush consistency achieved after freezing cycle
– Ice crystals form evenly throughout

### Documentation

– Batch ratio recorded on batch log
– Date and time of preparation noted
– Staff member name recorded
– Any deviations or issues documented

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## Troubleshooting

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## Safety Notes

– Always use filtered or bottled water to avoid chlorine taste
– Do not mix ratios mid-batch—choose one ratio per batch
– Ensure measuring jugs are clean and calibrated before use
– Wear appropriate food handling gloves when handling ingredients
– Report any equipment malfunctions to store manager immediately
– Follow UK Food Standards Agency guidelines for food safety

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## References

– UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) Food Safety Guidelines
– Little Coffee Bean Co Equipment Manual – Slush Machine
– Little Coffee Bean Co Cleaning & Maintenance SOP (Section 8)

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**Document Owner:** Little Coffee Bean Co Operations
**Review Frequency:** Annually or as required
**Next Review Date:** October 2026