eli5: How do “instant” versions of foods (instant oatmeal, coffee, rice, etc.) exist? Why are they not the standard since they’re so efficient?

Question

eli5: How do “instant” versions of foods (instant oatmeal, coffee, rice, etc.) exist? Why are they not the standard since they’re so efficient?

In: 11

Answer 1

Coffee in particular, most of the desirable flavour comes from oils that evaporate even at room temperature. Freeze drying doesn’t bring them along. They have done an objectively fine job with the smell of instant coffee, but it is missing something versus fresh.