We know them. We love them. They are a staple in all of our lives at E+ROSE Wellness Company.
Smoothies!
Smoothies are nourishing, satisfying, and, best of all – enjoyable!
Have you ever wondered what the origins of smoothies look like?
The smoothie craze began to take shape in the 1930s. As blender and freezer appliances became widely available to the masses, being able to freeze fruit in conjunction with this new blending device created the perfect opportunity for human ingenuity. Smoothies were born, and the opportunities became endless. (Source: Ryan Carmody, Healthy Smoothie Headquarters)
Following the introduction of these appliances, the increased focus on health and wellness contributed to rapid growth in smoothie popularity. During the 1960s, the macrobiotic* and health food movement influenced the number of fresh juices, produce, and other fruit drinks available to consumers as more and more people looked to diversify their palates. (Source: Ryan Carmody, Healthy Smoothie Headquarters)
As years passed, public figures began endorsing the idea of smoothies and the benefits they give our bodies. A well-known body-building and health and wellness advocate, the legendary Jack Lalanne opened the first health and fitness club promoting healthy eating and juicing in the 1930s. Jack Lalanne’s juicer that he created is still around today – and his recipes are commonly used throughout the health and wellness world.
The actual origin of the concept of smoothies is hard to pin down, as cultures worldwide had their own versions of “fruit slush” Source: Ryan Carmody, Healthy Smoothie Headquarters. In the United States, the term “smoothies” wasn’t popularized until the 1980s, when a man named Steve Kunhau searched for a milkshake alternative, as he was lactose intolerant (Wikipedia). He later founded the Smoothie King franchise. Smoothie king pioneered the smoothie industry, with followers such as Jamba Juice and other fast-food chains. The additions of chocolate, Nutella, and Splenda have been added ingredients in multiple fast-food and smoothie chains, hoping to better adhere to what their customers want.
Recently, consumer health trends reflect an increasing focus on incorporating health and wellness into everyday lives. Customers are more concerned about sugar content and the quality of ingredients used in smoothies, highlighting the importance of creating whole, nutritious smoothies. The recognition of the benefits of superfoods has also impacted growth of smoothies since they are so easy to incorporate into a recipe and add a major punch!
As health fads came and went, smoothies took many different shapes and sizes and now we have these tasty vehicles for giving our bodies the nutrients we need in blended form.
*Macrobiotic: Macrobiotics is a lifestyle stressing balance and harmony. It includes a rigorous diet plan, gentle exercise, and behavioral changes. All are geared towards obtaining a natural and calm way of life. – Healthline
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