Beverages are drinks that are consumed to remain hydrated or to receive energy. A wide variety of these liquid refreshments are available in different flavors and tastes. These beverages can be a source of essential nutrients or stimulants to boost energy. One can also create new beverage recipes by combining various ingredients. Check out some popular beverages below, some of which stand out due to their health benefits and others due to their taste.

Beverage types

Milk
Milk is a nutrient-rich beverage obtained from animals like cows, sheep, or goats. It is an excellent source of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorous, and magnesium. Whole milk, low-fat and fat-free organic milk, lactose-free milk, nut milk, and flavored milk are the different types available.

Tea
Tea is a popular aromatic beverage that offers multiple health benefits. Regular intake of this drink can help increase your immunity, lower cholesterol, and reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Depending on how it is processed, there are four different types of tea: black tea, green tea, white tea, and oolong tea.

Coffee
For most people worldwide, the day begins with a cup of hot coffee. It is a stimulating drink that energizes your mind and decreases fatigue. Black coffee, espresso, latte, cappuccino, Americano, mocha, iced coffee – there is a lengthy list of coffee types you can make with small coffee beans.

Juices
Juices are made from fresh fruits and vegetables without adding any sugar. It is a beverage many prefer as it is easier to drink the juice than eat the whole fruit. Some popular fruit juices are made from the pulp of oranges, pineapples, apples, grapes, and watermelons. Furthermore, vegetable juices are low in calories and ideal for those following specific meal plans. You can enjoy these refreshments anytime, for breakfast, as a mid-snack, or for dinner.

Energy drinks
Energy drinks contain essential minerals and are suitable for replenishing the fluids and electrolytes lost from the body during exercise and sweating. Most commercially available products contain caffeine, sugar or sweeteners, flavoring agents, and water. Though energy drinks give you quick energy, excessive intake can harm your health.

Mocktails
Mocktails are refreshing drinks made with a combination of juices, syrups, and sodas. These beverages are typically prepared by shaking, stirring, or blending. There are many types of mocktails, like pina colada, mojito, Sangria, and more, that anyone can make at home.

Milkshakes
Milkshakes are sweet and flavorful cold beverages with milk as the primary content. One can also add fruits, ice cream, flavor-giving syrups, nuts, and cream. Nothing is better than a chilled glass of a thick milkshake on a hot summer day. Loaded with the nutritional benefits of milk, these sweet drinks are the easiest and most healthy option for kids and adults.

Smoothies
Smoothies are different from milkshakes. They are much thicker and creamier due to the high content of milk, yogurt, or ice cream. From basic strawberry smoothies to green smoothies, many types of this beverage can give you nutrition without much effort.

Hot cocoa
Hot cocoa is prepared by blending hot water or milk with cocoa powder. It is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that can help you protect from conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. This rich and creamy beverage tastes best when served hot.

Coconut water
Coconut water is the liquid found in fresh coconuts. It contains natural electrolytes and may be an excellent alternative to energy drinks. Drinking coconut water helps boost energy levels, supports digestion, and promotes kidney health. Water from the tender fruit is much sweeter and milder in taste than the ripe one.

Soft drinks
Soft drinks are beverages containing water, most often carbonated water, sweeteners, and artificial flavoring agents. They are sold mainly in bottles or cans. Soft drinks should be consumed in moderation as the added sugar can adversely affect one’s health.

Tisanes
Tisanes are commonly known as herbal tea, but they are different from traditional tea. It is a decoction made from herbs other than regular tea plants, and they do not contain caffeine.

Beverages are served in restaurants, sold in the market, or can be made at home. The need for beverage service equipment varies depending on the types of drinks served. Juice dispensers and tea & coffee brewers are commonly found in restaurants providing refreshment drinks. Beverage packaging supplies are most commonly made from either glass or plastic. The containers of bottled drinks also come with different closures to avoid spilling and for quick and easy opening.