The fundamental difference between pre-mix and post-mix soft drinks lies in where the carbonation and water are combined with the flavoring syrup.
Here's a breakdown based on the provided information:
Understanding Soft Drink Dispensing Methods
When you get a soft drink from a fountain at a restaurant or bar, it's typically dispensed using either a pre-mix or post-mix system. These systems differ significantly in how the final beverage is prepared and delivered.
What is Post-Mix?
Based on the reference, Post-mix refers to soft drinks that are already prepared and carbonated before being delivered to the dispensing location.
- Packaging: They are supplied in bulk, commonly packaged in kegs or bag-in-box containers.
- Dispensing: These bulk containers are connected directly to fountain heads or dispensed using guns at the service counter.
- Ease of Use: The reference states that post-mix has the advantage of being easy to use. The beverage is ready to go; it just needs to be poured.
- Cost: A significant factor noted in the reference is that post-mix costs substantially more than the alternative.
What is Pre-Mix?
According to the reference, Pre-mix systems involve a different process.
- Preparation: With pre-mix setups, you purchase syrup and the carbonated water is added separately. This implies the mixing and carbonation happen at the point of dispensing or just before.
Key Differences at a Glance
Based strictly on the provided reference, the main distinctions can be summarized as follows:
| Feature | Post-Mix | Pre-Mix |
|---|---|---|
| Form Supplied | Finished soft drink (carbonated & mixed) | Syrup (requires adding carbonated water) |
| Packaging | Bulk (kegs or bag-in-box) | Syrup (packaging not specified in reference) |
| Preparation | Pre-prepared in bulk | Requires adding carbonated water |
| Ease of Use | Easy to use | Requires mixing |
| Cost | Costs substantially more | Cost comparison implied, but not stated |
| Dispensing | Connected to fountain heads or guns | Requires adding carbonated water |
In essence, post-mix is the finished product delivered in bulk, while pre-mix is a syrup concentrate that is combined with carbonated water at the point of service. The reference highlights post-mix as being easier to use but significantly more expensive.
