international smoothie facts Why do people drink smoothies? We asked around the world! Icelandic Smoothie Fans Everyone in Iceland loves smoothies, well practically. Last year one company sold 150,000 smoothies, which is some thirst considering there are just 300,000 people in the country to start with! Icelanders drink smoothies because "they are a healthy alternative and they taste so good!". Big in Bahrain Keeping your cool in extreme midday temperatures as high as 49 degrees in summer is made easier thanks to chilled smoothies. The warm climate experienced all year round makes smoothies an essential addition to Middle Eastern menus. People enjoy smoothies in Bahrain because "they are refreshing and provide a healthy alternative to junk food". Winter Warmers in Sweden Swedes are embracing smoothies, you’ll see them everywhere – trains, planes, airports, hotels, cruise liners as well as more traditional stores. Rumour has it they even warm their smoothies when winter sets in! Swedish people drink smoothies because "they are so healthy and good for you". Detox in Japan Supply can barely meet demand in Japan. The nation has gone wild for 100% pure fruit smoothies, with taster sessions selling out during in-store launches! Health conscious consumers are adding smoothies to their daily diets. Japanese people use smoothies "as an essential part of their detox". Born in the USA? Americans are HUGE smoothie fans. In the 1940's Hollywood actors reportedly consumed smoothies and often enjoyed a 'fresh fruit rush' before going on set. In California (rumoured to be the birthplace of the 'smoothie') you can now get a smoothie delivered direct to your door within 90 mins. Big Down Under Australians are passionate about their fresh fruit smoothies, and why not! The gorgeous, all year round climate is the perfect temperature for enjoying iced smoothies. Juice and smoothie bars are big business here, with 30% of the countries smoothies being sold in dedicated bars. Smoothie Search in Spain With local markets providing a huge range of affordable fruit, many Spaniards opt for a DIY smoothie. However, demand is growing on the Costas as more Europeans relocate to the country’s eastern shores and in 2008 ready to drink smoothies hit the supermarket shelves. Early Learning in Denmark The Danes embarked on a smoothie awareness campaign throughout their schools. Older pupils are encouraged to cook and prepare food for the younger students so that they gain a good understanding of where their food comes from. One school has just launched a smoothie poster competition to help children understand what a smoothie is and why they are so good for you. © International Smoothie Week 2008