Is putting ice in drinks an American thing?

The Ubiquitous Chill: Why Iced Drinks Are More Than Just an American Thing

While the image of a towering glass of iced tea might conjure visions of a sun-drenched porch in the American South, to paint the act of putting ice in drinks as solely an “American thing” is a significant oversight. The cool comfort of an iced beverage, that delightful tingle against a parched throat, resonates far beyond the borders of the United States. In fact, the widespread adoption of iced drinks speaks to a global phenomenon, a shared appreciation for refreshment that transcends cultural boundaries.

Think of the bustling street food stalls of Southeast Asia. Amidst the vibrant chaos and sweltering heat, iced drinks are an absolute necessity. From iced coffee in Vietnam, potent and sweet with condensed milk, to the shaved ice desserts of Thailand, piled high with colorful toppings, ice provides a crucial reprieve from the tropical climate. These aren’t American imports; they are integral parts of local culinary traditions.

Even in Europe, often associated with warm beverages and sophisticated sipping, the appeal of a cool drink hasn’t been ignored. While perhaps not as ubiquitous as in North America, iced coffees and teas are increasingly common in cafes and restaurants, particularly during the warmer months. The Mediterranean region, especially, embraces the cooling effects of ice in everything from juices to cocktails.

So why does the perception of iced drinks being uniquely American persist? Perhaps it’s due to the readily available access to ice and the prevalence of large-sized iced beverages in the United States. America certainly popularized the mass production and consumption of ice, making it easily accessible and relatively inexpensive. This likely contributed to its widespread use in a variety of drinks, from soft drinks to cocktails.

However, the desire for a chilled beverage is far more fundamental than just access to ice. It’s a basic human instinct, driven by the need to regulate body temperature and find relief from heat. The application of that instinct, the method of chilling a drink, may vary from culture to culture. Perhaps one region favors crushed ice, another shaved ice, and another simple ice cubes.

The truth is, the “American thing” label misrepresents a universal desire. The refreshing chill of iced beverages is a global practice, a testament to the enduring appeal of a perfectly chilled drink. From the humblest iced water to the most elaborate frozen concoction, the simple act of adding ice to a beverage unites us in our collective pursuit of cool refreshment, proving that some pleasures truly are universal.