Does Target Sell Dry Ice in 2024? Everything You Need to Know

With supply chain challenges and weather events disrupting freezer inventory, more consumers are wondering if they can grab dry ice from Target for freezing and cooling needs. Unfortunately, Target does not sell dry ice in 2024 – and there are good reasons why.

What Is Dry Ice and Why the Special Freezers?

Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide (CO2). At temperatures of -109.3°F (-78.5°C), CO2 transforms from a gas into dry ice snow. This is much colder than typical freezer temperatures. Dry ice does not melt – instead, it sublimates, turning from a solid directly into a gas as it warms up.

Target‘s standard freezers operate at around 0°F to safely preserve frozen foods and ice cream. However, this temperature is too hot for dry ice, which would quickly sublimate into gas if stored at 0°F.

To properly maintain dry ice as a solid, specialized freezers or coolers capable of reaching temperatures below -110°F are required. Target‘s freezers simply cannot get cold enough. The dry ice would fully dissipate into air before ever being placed in a customer‘s cart.

What Other Frozen Items Does Target Sell?

While dry ice is off the menu, Target stores still provide a wide selection of frozen foods, ice cream, and normal ice bags:

• Frozen meals – pizzas, appetizers, entrees
• Ice cream – brands like Talenti, Archer Farms
• Frozen fruits and vegetables
• Frozen meat selections
• Bagged ice – 7lbs, 10lbs, 20lbs for under $5

Target‘s frozen departments offer budget-friendly options for freezer cooking and chilling on the go. Just don‘t expect to find dry ice in the aisles – stick to the standard frozen fare.

Where Can You Buy Dry Ice in 2024?

If you have a specific need for dry ice, these major retailers typically carry it:

• Walmart – $1.50 per pound. Call ahead as availability varies. Requires gloves for purchase.
• Costco – Sold in select Costco warehouse stores. Call ahead – limited to 2 units per member.
• Kroger – Available at Kroger-owned chains (Ralphs, Fred Meyer) with fluctuating stock.
• Smart & Final – Dry ice available at locations in CA, AZ, and NV. Requires gloves/long sleeves for purchase.
• HEB – Texas-based HEB sells dry ice at many stores. Check with your local branch.

Reach out to retailers ahead of time to verify dry ice inventory. Supply can be volatile. Weekend demand tends to be higher as well. Exercise caution when handling dry ice – gloves and proper ventilation are a must.

Dry Ice vs. Regular Ice: Quick Freeze Comparison

How well does dry ice work compared to normal ice in coolers and freezers? Dry ice wins hands down for rapid freezing:

• Dry ice temp: -109°F
• Regular ice temp: 32°F

With a 77°F temperature advantage, dry ice can flash freeze items in just hours, while regular ice can take 1-2 days to fully freeze contents. Dry ice also leaves less liquid mess as it dissipates directly from solid to gas.

Estimated Dry Ice Cooling Duration

Actual duration depends on external temperature, contents, and how often the cooler/freezer is opened. Handle dry ice with insulated gloves and ventilate working areas.

Rising Dry Ice Consumption and Prices

U.S. dry ice production reached record levels in 2022 at over 4 million metric tons, a 3% increase from 2021. Demand is being driven by cold chain supply needs. Meanwhile, dry ice prices per pound climbed over 11% year-over-year in 2022 due to surging CO2 gas costs. Expect continued tight supplies and rising prices through 2023. Call ahead for availability.

Transporting Dry Ice Safely and Legally

When transporting dry ice, follow these safety guidelines:

• Use insulated containers made for dry ice like foam shipping boxes. Never use sealed thermoses – the sublimating gas needs to vent.
• Secure lids loosely so gas can release safely.
• Always wear insulated gloves when handling dry ice. Avoid direct skin contact.
• Limit vehicle exposure time to avoid asphyxiation from accumulating CO2 gas.
• Comply with hazardous shipping regulations – many couriers restrict dry ice shipping.

The Risks of Improper Dry Ice Handling

Dry ice can cause serious cold burn injuries. Follow these tips when using it:

• Wear insulated gloves at all times when handling dry ice.
• Do NOT ingest dry ice or food/drink in direct contact with it.
• Do NOT store dry ice in sealed containers – venting gas can cause pressure buildup and explosion.
• Monitor children closely around dry ice – chilling/burn dangers.
• Avoid breathing CO2 vapors – ensure proper ventilation.

If exposure results in skin discoloration or cold burn blisters, rinse with lukewarm water – do NOT use hot water. Seek medical treatment for severe injuries. Use dry ice responsibly.

Make Your Own Dry Ice

While risky if done improperly, you can make DIY dry ice with a CO2 fire extinguisher or carbon dioxide tank using an approved pressure vessel with proper ventilation:

1. Wear insulated gloves, goggles, and protective clothing. Work in a well-ventilated area.

2. Secure a vented cloth bag around the nozzle of a CO2 tank or fire extinguisher using duct tape or zip ties. Make sure gas can escape.

3. Point nozzle away from yourself and slowly open the CO2 valve into the vented bag. Dry ice snow should form.

4. Once the desired amount is created, seal bag loosely and move to freezer storage.

5. Use extreme caution when making and handling homemade dry ice. Improper techniques can cause explosion hazards and serious injuries.

The Bottom Line

While Target does not carry dry ice due to its freezer limitations, consumers can purchase it from major retailers like Walmart and Costco in 2024. Call ahead to confirm availability. With proper handling dry ice provides ultra-fast freezing for coolers and extended freezer storage. Use care when transporting and making your own dry ice at home. Target remains an affordable option for normal bagged ice and frozen foods. Stay cool!