In the world of beverages, there is a common belief that by requesting a drink 'without ice', the customer will get more quantity for their money.

This idea, spread on social media, has generated debate among consumers and hospitality professionals.

However, experts claim that this practice is not only fruitless, but could also harm the tasting experience.

Simone Spagnoli, head of bars at renowned establishments like Mr Fogg's and Control Room B, explains that ice is essential for maintaining the proper temperature of the drink, maximizing enjoyment from the first sip to the last.

Ice, by slowly diluting, allows the drink to stay cold longer, preventing it from heating up quickly.

The amount of ice is directly related to the size of the drink in milliliters, so the absence of ice or an insufficient amount could negatively affect the experience.

For drinks like gin and tonics or vodkas with soft drinks, the proportion of liquor, mixer, and ice is carefully calculated for the glass in which it is served, usually a highball glass.

Liam Hirt, founder of Circumstance Distillery in Bristol, also advises against ordering drinks without ice, arguing that this could result in a lower quality drink.

Hirt notes that good quality ice keeps the drink cold and preserves the carbon dioxide for longer, which translates into a more effervescent drink.

Removing the ice could mean more mixer, diminishing the taste of the liquor.

In the case of McDonald's, cups have two fill lines: one for drinks with ice and one without ice, and the dispensing machines fill the glasses to the appropriate line according to the customer's preference.

However, this policy only works if the staff follows the correct instructions, so courtesy towards hospitality workers is essential.

In conclusion, the request for drinks without ice does not guarantee a greater quantity and, in many cases, could negatively affect the consumption experience.

Experts suggest that ice is an essential component to maintain the temperature and quality of the drinks, so its absence or an insufficient amount could result in a less pleasant experience.