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

Instant foods are generally more convenient and sometimes more shelf stable.

Standard foods are generally cheaper, more nutritious, taste better, and have better “mouth feel” and texture.

There is a time and a place for both, for most people, and most people will eat a subset of instant foods and not others.

There is a close parallel between fast food and slower food. Different people choose different tradeoffs at different times.