What Ice Machine Does Sonic Use?
Sonic Drive-In was founded in Oklahoma in 1953 as a walk-up root beer stand outside a log-cabin steakhouse. As of 2026, the chain has expanded to over 3,400 locations in the United States. Sonic began using nugget ice developed by Scotsman Ice Systems in the mid-1980s, helping turn a style of chewable ice originally created for healthcare into a recognizable part of the fast-food experience.
Today, Sonic uses Scotsman Prodigy Plus® nugget ice machines, modular units that combine Original Chewable Ice® with self-diagnostic technology. This line includes antimicrobial protection and offers multiple condenser configurations for different installation needs.
Check out KaTom's article on The Story of Scotsman and Sonic Ice to learn about Scotsman’s invention of nugget ice and how Sonic helped popularize it in the fast-food industry.
How Sonic Ice Machines Work
Commercial nugget ice machines use an extrusion process rather than forming individual cubes in a traditional evaporator mold. Water freezes inside a cylindrical evaporator, and an auger scrapes the resulting ice into flakes. The auger then forces those flakes through an opening that compresses them, producing small nuggets with pockets of air and water.
This process gives Sonic ice its characteristic chewable texture. The compressed flakes remain firm enough for beverage service while staying softer than conventional cube ice. Their porous structure also absorbs some of the surrounding liquid. When served in a soda, for instance, the ice absorbs some of the drink's flavor. This helps explain nugget ice's close association with fountain drinks: after finishing the beverage, customers can chew on ice that has absorbed some of its flavor.
The Benefits of Scotsman Ice Machines
Scotsman Prodigy Plus machines are designed for high-volume beverage service and include key features such as:
- Soft, Chewable Ice: Scotsman's Original Chewable Ice has a porous, compressed-flake structure that gives fountain drinks a distinctive texture and enables the ice to absorb some of the surrounding beverage
- Reduced Water and Energy Consumption: Prodigy Plus nugget machines can use up to 40 percent less water and 15 percent less energy than comparable ice machines
- Equipment Status Monitoring: Prodigy Plus technology includes AutoAlert™ indicator lights that communicate operating status and signal when service tasks such as descaling or sanitizing are needed
- Antimicrobial Agent: Many units use an AgION™ antimicrobial agent molded into select internal plastic components to inhibit bacterial growth on treated surfaces
- Configuration Flexibility: Prodigy Plus nugget machines are available in multiple sizes and production capacities, and select models can be configured with air-, water-, or remote-cooled condensers
How Nugget Ice Machines Can Improve Your Commercial Kitchen
According to Scotsman, 80 percent of customers prefer nugget ice in their soft drinks.1 The chewable texture and ability to absorb beverage flavors distinguish nugget ice from other ice types and contribute to its appeal. Its association with refreshing drinks has also contributed to its widespread popularity.
When selecting an ice machine, account for peak service volume, available utilities, desired condenser type, water quality, drainage needs, and compatible ice storage.
KaTom's article Get 'Sonic Ice' at Home: Nugget Ice Makers provides additional planning guidance based on workflow and available space.
Find Nugget Ice Machines at KaTom for Making Chewable Ice
KaTom carries Scotsman Prodigy Plus nugget ice machines for operators looking to produce soft, chewable ice for fountain drinks and other beverages. Compare output, cooling method, utility requirements, and dimensions to find the model that fits your beverage service needs.
For more help choosing the right ice machine for your operation, check out KaTom's Nugget Ice Machines Buyers' Guide.
- Scotsman Nugget Ice Story Sell Sheet. Scotsman Ice. Accessed August 2026.
