Do you want to know when were smoothies invented? Are you curious to know about their history and want to know how they started to rule the world of health world?
If yes, this is the perfect place for you to be. Here, we will explain to you every bit of detail about the history of smoothies and the story of their evolution.
So, let’s just get started.
The History of Smoothies
Talking about the inventions, one brings two. Due to the introduction of one technology, many new inventions become feasible. For many decades, Eastern and Mediterranean cultures served drinks very similar to smoothies.
But, the invention of the electric blender in 1922 proved to be a game-changer. The invention of refrigerators was also vital in the history of smoothies as there were no more seasonal restrictions for using fruits in smoothies.
In 1960, a guy named Steve Kuhnau worked as a soda jerk. He began to experiment with the smoothies. For this purpose, he used different protein powders, vitamins, fruit juices, and vegetables.
He was impressed with their taste and health-friendly nature. So, he started to sell them. He got great early success in selling them. Inspired by this success, he invented Smoothie King, the first commercial restaurant to sell smoothies. The Smoothie King chain quickly spread across the United States, and the world was introduced to the brand new beverage sensation called Smoothies.
Why Is Smoothie Called Smoothie?
A smoothie is a creamy drink prepared by blending fruits and vegetables with milk, yogurt, or juice. The actual term smoothie was used in recipes during the second half of the 20th century.
You may be wondering what is the reason for calling it a smoothie. Before the invention of smoothies, the term was used to describe many different things, and even a brand was named “The Smoothies.”
But, once the inventor of smoothies decided to commercialize them, he used the term smoothies for his drinks. Since then, the name has been prominent with these drinks.
Why Were Smoothies Invented?
Before the invention of smoothies, milkshakes were immensely popular as healthy and tasty beverages. However, they had a problem that led to the invention of the smoothies. People who are lactose intolerant can’t digest milkshakes properly.
The same happened with Kuhnau as he tried to enjoy the milkshakes his ancestor loved. But, as he could not digest them, he began experimenting with juices and fruits. He ended up inventing smoothies, and luckily they helped him control his allergies and sugar levels.
What Was The First Smoothie?
In 1926, the orange juice stand owners Bill Hamlin and Julius Freed blended orange juice with some specific ingredients. The purpose was to make it thinner and reduce the acidic effect.
The result was the creation of the first popular Smoothie in the US.
The Evolution of Smoothies
After the emergence of the Smoothie King in the 1970s, smoothies started to gain immense popularity. In the 1990s, they became a new sensation as they were sold in grocery stores, coffee shops, and cafes.
Gradually, smoothies also became available at health food stores, restaurants, and juice bars. Soon, pre-bottled smoothies became available at grocery stores.
The fame and availability kept increasing with time; today, they are available worldwide in numerous flavors. You can make them at home, drink them at different restaurants or even order them online.
Fun Facts About Smoothies
Let’s explore a few astounding facts about the Smoothies:
- For many centuries, eastern cultures have been serving pureed fruit drinks that we call smoothies now in blended form.
- In the beginning, the refrigerators were not affordable for average households. So, smoothies were made using only the fruits that were available in that season.
- In the 1970s, social movements in America supported healthy food and drinks. Smoothies got special importance in this era due to their amazing health benefits.
- Currently, International Smoothie Industry generates multibillion dollars as revenue.
- Differentiating between milkshakes and smoothies, a milkshake is a dairy-based product containing fruits. In contrast, a smoothie is a fruit-based product with a base of milk, yogurt, or juice.
FAQs
- Who invented the smoothie?
Many different opinions exist about the inventor of the smoothies. However, the most popular one is that Julius Freed invented smoothies in the 1920s.
- What country invented smoothies?
The smoothies were mainly adopted from the Brazilian drink culture. But, they gained popularity in America.
- How to pronounce smoothie?
It is pronounced as SMOO+DHEE.
Final Words
Nowadays, smoothies are the talk of the town when it comes to a healthy diet. But, to get to this stage, they have gone through a fascinating journey.
In this blog, we have given you a detailed insight into the history of smoothies. We have answered your queries like who was the first person to make a smoothie and how smoothies got fame? If you wish to know anything else, you are welcome in the comment section.
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