Icee vs. Slurpee — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on November 4, 2023
Icee and Slurpee are both brands of frozen carbonated beverages, Icee being the original product and Slurpee a branded version for 7-Eleven stores.
Difference Between Icee and Slurpee
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Key Differences
Icees are known for their smooth, fine ice texture and are the original frozen carbonated beverage, introduced in the late 1950s. A Slurpee, specifically branded for 7-Eleven, is essentially the same type of drink, but it is marketed under a different name due to a licensing agreement. Both Icee and Slurpee drinks are offered in a variety of flavors and are synonymous with their brain-freezing sensation.
Both the Icee and the Slurpee have a loyal customer base, with the Icee often associated with movie theaters and amusement parks, while Slurpees are a staple at 7-Eleven convenience stores. The Icee Company has its own brand identity, complete with a polar bear mascot, whereas the Slurpee is marketed with 7-Eleven’s branding. The Icee and Slurpee, while similar in substance, differ in their marketing and distribution channels.
The texture of an Icee may vary slightly from that of a Slurpee due to the different machines and freezing processes used by the separate companies. The Slurpee often has a somewhat slushier consistency, but this can vary by location and machine maintenance. Flavor options for both Icee and Slurpee drinks may vary regionally, but classic flavors like cherry and cola are commonly found for both brands.
Icee flavors are developed and branded by The Icee Company, which also provides machines and service. Slurpee flavors, on the other hand, sometimes feature unique names and promotional tie-ins exclusive to 7-Eleven stores. While Icee may offer its products in various outlets, Slurpees are exclusive to 7-Eleven, making the Slurpee brand somewhat more niche in terms of where it can be purchased.
In terms of cultural impact, both the Icee and the Slurpee have become embedded in American snack culture. The Slurpee, because of its association with 7-Eleven and its iconic status, often gets a special highlight on July 11th (7/11 Day) with promotions and new flavor introductions. The Icee, meanwhile, maintains a classic status with its longstanding history as the original frozen carbonated beverage.
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Comparison Chart
Origin
Created in the late 1950s.
Branded version for 7-Eleven in the 1960s.
Branding
Marketed with a polar bear mascot.
Marketed with 7-Eleven branding.
Availability
Available in various venues.
Exclusive to 7-Eleven stores.
Texture
Smooth, fine ice texture.
May have a slushier consistency.
Promotions
Classic brand with varied regional flavors.
Known for unique promotions, like 7/11 Day.
Compare with Definitions
Icee
A brand of frozen carbonated beverages.
He cooled off with a cherry Icee after his soccer game.
Slurpee
A convenience store staple with a cult following.
They celebrated 7/11 Day with free Slurpees.
Icee
A beverage noted for its fine icy consistency.
The Icee machine whirred, delivering his frosty treat.
Slurpee
A 7-Eleven branded frozen carbonated beverage.
On a hot day, a cola Slurpee is his go-to cooler.
Icee
A slushy drink available in multiple flavors.
She chose a blue raspberry Icee at the concession stand.
Slurpee
A beverage known for its semi-frozen texture.
The Slurpee's icy crystals melted quickly in the summer heat.
Icee
A popular refreshment often found at cinemas.
They shared an Icee while watching the latest blockbuster.
Slurpee
A slushy drink offered in unique, rotating flavors.
She tried the new tropical Slurpee flavor during the promotion.
Icee
A trademarked frozen drink brand.
The Icee has been a favorite of hers since childhood.
Slurpee
A trademarked 7-Eleven specialty drink.
He collects Slurpee cups as a hobby.
Slurpee
Slurpee is the 7-Eleven-exclusive brand name for a frozen carbonated drink originating in 1966.
Common Curiosities
Are Slurpees only sold at 7-Eleven?
Yes, Slurpees are exclusive to 7-Eleven stores.
Where can I buy an Icee?
Icees are available at various locations, including movie theaters, amusement parks, and some convenience stores.
What is an Icee?
An Icee is a frozen carbonated beverage available in various flavors, known for its fine ice texture.
What is a Slurpee?
A Slurpee is a branded frozen carbonated drink sold exclusively at 7-Eleven stores.
Are Icee and Slurpee the same thing?
They are similar types of drinks, but they differ in branding and where they are sold.
Do Icees and Slurpees have the same ingredients?
The basic ingredients are similar, but the flavor formulations can differ.
Are Icees and Slurpees suitable for vegetarians?
Most flavors are suitable for vegetarians, but it's best to check the ingredient list for specific flavors.
Can I get an Icee in a Slurpee flavor?
While flavors may be similar, specific Slurpee-branded flavors are unique to 7-Eleven.
Can I make an Icee or Slurpee at home?
You can make a similar slushy drink at home, but it may not be identical due to the specialized freezing process.
Do Icees have a diet or sugar-free option?
Yes, Icee offers diet and sugar-free flavor options.
Is there a difference in the machines that make Icees and Slurpees?
Yes, the machines may differ slightly, which can affect the drink's texture.
Does 7-Eleven offer sugar-free Slurpees?
Some sugar-free options are available, but availability may vary by store.
Are there caffeine-free Icees and Slurpees?
Yes, there are caffeine-free options, particularly among the fruit-flavored varieties.
Do Icees and Slurpees contain allergens?
Some flavors may contain allergens; check the ingredient list for specific allergen information.
What's the best way to avoid a "brain freeze" while consuming an Icee or Slurpee?
Drink slowly to avoid the rapid cooling of blood vessels, which can cause a brain freeze.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
