Drinks

Drinks, or beverages, are liquids prepared for human consumption that provide hydration, flavor, and often nutrition. The category encompasses a wide range of liquids, including water, milk, juice, tea, coffee, soft drinks, soups, and alcoholic beverages, as well as traditional or fortified drinks such as smoothies or fortified wines.

Classification: Most beverages fall into non-alcoholic and alcoholic groups. Non-alcoholic drinks include water, milk, fruit and vegetable juices, teas and coffees, carbonated drinks, soups, and fortified beverages. Alcoholic drinks result from fermentation, distillation, or both, and include beer, wine, cider, spirits, and liqueurs. Beverages can be served hot or cold, and can be still or carbonated.

Production and preparation: Many drinks are produced by extraction (brewing tea), fermentation (yeast action in beer or wine), distillation (spirits), infusion (herbal teas), blending and carbonation. Processing may involve pasteurization, filtration, or other treatments to ensure safety and shelf life; packaging can be in bottles, cans, cartons, or kegs.

History and culture: Beverages have long histories tied to trade, agriculture, religion, and ritual. Tea and coffee became global commodities, beer and wine feature prominently in many cuisines and social occasions, and soft drinks emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries with mass production and advertising. Drinking customs vary by region and occasion.

Nutrition and safety: Most beverages contribute water and energy, with sugars, caffeine, or alcohol as notable components. Moderation and guidelines vary: caffeine tolerance, daily sugar intake limits, and alcohol recommendations depend on age and health. Safe handling includes proper storage, clean preparation equipment, and attention to possible contamination.