The Ultimate Smoothie Guide
Discover everything you need to know about smoothies, from popular smoothie types, to the history of smoothies, to how nutritious smoothies are made and how to choose the perfect blend for you. Whether you're exploring fruit smoothies, deciding between protein smoothies or superfood smoothies, or searching for smoothies near me, consider this your guide to one of the most fun, flavorful, and endlessly customizable drinks around.
What Are Smoothies?
A smoothie is a blended beverage traditionally made by combining fruit with liquid and other ingredients until smooth. Depending on the type of smoothie, that might include fruit juice, milk, yogurt, ice, or additional flavorings.
Smoothies differ widely in ingredients, texture, and flavor, which has helped make everything from classic fruit smoothies to creamy and tropical varieties popular choices.
The History of Smoothies
The term "smoothie" started in West Coast health food stores in the 1930s. But the journey to today's smoothie got a major boost from one important kitchen invention: the electric blender. Introduced in the early 20th century, blenders made it possible to quickly turn fruits and other ingredients into cool, smooth, refreshing drinks.
As blending became easier and more accessible, people experimented with different fruits, juices, dairy products, and flavors—helping transform the smoothie into the versatile treat enjoyed today.
Types of Smoothies
Not all smoothies are the same, and that's part of the fun! Smoothies can be grouped into several broad categories based on their ingredients, preparation, or intended use.
Fruit and tropical smoothies emphasize fruit-forward flavors, while protein, energy, meal replacement, and green smoothies may incorporate ingredients selected for particular nutritional characteristics.
Other varieties include superfood smoothies and smoothie bowls, giving smoothie fans plenty of options to explore. Individual recipes and offerings can vary considerably within each category.
Planet VIP members get exclusive information about new smoothie products, too!
Smoothies vs. Smoothie Bowls
They may share plenty of the same flavors, but how you enjoy them is half the fun. Sip it or spoon it? That's one easy way to think about smoothies vs. smoothie bowls.
Smoothies are blended for sipping, while smoothie bowls turn up the thickness and come ready for a spoon. Smoothie bowls may also be topped with fruit, granola, seeds, or other ingredients for added flavor and texture.
Smoothies Near Me
Smoothie craving activated? Let's find a smoothie near you! Use our location finder to discover the nearest Planet Smoothie and get one step closer to your next smoothie made with real fruit.
From fruity favorites to tempting flavor combinations, there's plenty to explore. So the next time you're searching for smoothies near me, you know where to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Smoothies FAQs
Q: Are your smoothies made with real fruit?
A: Our smoothies are blended with real fruit, juices, and nutritional add-ins.
Q: What sizes of smoothies do you offer?
A: For most of our smoothies, we offer three sizes: 20oz, 32oz, 44oz. For our Planet Kids menu, we offer 12oz smoothies. Please review the nutrition information for specifics on each drink.
Q: How many calories are in a fruit smoothie?
That depends on the type of smoothie and the mix-ins or customizations. Please visit the nutrition information for more details on smoothie calorie counts.
Q: Are smoothies good meal replacements?
A: Some smoothies can work as a convenient meal replacement, depending on their ingredients, portion size, and nutritional content. Smoothies that provide a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and other nutrients may be more satisfying than lighter, fruit-focused options, so be sure to review the ingredients and nutrition information when choosing a smoothie to replace a meal.
Q: Do smoothies aid in muscle recovery?
A: Smoothies can be a convenient way to consume nutrients your body uses after physical activity, particularly when they contain carbohydrates and protein. Because ingredients and nutritional content vary widely among smoothies, look for options that contain appropriate amounts of protein and carbohydrates if post-workout recovery is your goal.
Q: Where do I find nutritional information for smoothies?
A: Planet smoothie offers nutrition information for all products. Please review the nutrition information for specifics on each drink. We also offer information on Ingredients and Allergens.
Q: When is National Smoothie Day?
National Smoothie Day falls on June 21 every year, coinciding with the start of Summer. The next National Smoothie Day lands on Monday, June 21st, 2027. Visit out National Smoothie Day page for more information.