David Strang, originally from Glasgow, arrived in New Zealand in 1863 after gaining experience in a coffee warehouse. Settling in Invercargill, he established a coffee and spice works factory, where he experimented with novel coffee processing techniques. In 1889, Strang revolutionized coffee production with his "soluble coffee powder," utilizing his patented "Dry Hot-Air" process, which converted brewed coffee into easily dissolvable granules.
Strang's breakthrough marked the birth of commercial instant coffee. He secured a patent (number 3518) for his soluble coffee powder, marketing it under the brand name "Strang's Coffee." This pioneering product boasted advantages for shipping and storage due to its lightweight nature and extended shelf life, a boon for international trade.
Beyond instant coffee, Strang's innovations extended to coffee-roasting technology and the creation of unique blends like mocha, a combination of coffee and cocoa. His contributions didn't stop at beverages; he also patented the "Eclipse Hot Air Grain Dryer," showcasing his versatile approach to manufacturing.
Although Strang laid the groundwork, mass production of instant coffee began in earnest around 1910 when Belgian-American businessman George Constant Louis Washington refined the process. However, Strang's contributions remained pivotal, and his products gained acclaim at exhibitions across Australasia.
Strang's visionary approach encompassed marketing and distribution strategies as well. He packaged his soluble coffee powder in tins, echoing his successful methods with other spice products. Through savvy branding and distribution networks, Strang's Coffee reached a national and international audience, setting the stage for the widespread adoption of instant coffee in the years to come.
In essence, David Strang's legacy in the coffee industry extends far beyond the invention of instant coffee. His pioneering techniques and entrepreneurial spirit reshaped the landscape of coffee manufacturing, laying the groundwork for the global phenomenon of instant coffee that continues to thrive today.
The Evolution of Commercial Instant Coffee: David Strang's Legacy
