Trend History in Commercial Kitchen Equipment of All Times [infographics]

Cooking on a commercial scale has a long and rich history, dating back thousands of years. Large-scale community kitchens were present in ancient Egypt and communal cooking spaces were recorded in other ancient civilizations like those of the Chinese and Indians. The concept of ordering from a menu appeared around 900 years ago in Song Dynasty, China, and in the 1600s, the French began formalizing commercial cooking. Boulanger is credited with establishing the first restaurant in 1765.

While utensil remains from periods as early as the prehistoric age have been found, the industrial revolution mechanized the kitchen and provided us with the first iterations of modern kitchen equipment. The aftermath of the Second World War brought about further inventions, laying the foundations of commercial kitchen equipment as we know them today. In this article, we will explore the evolution of modern commercial kitchen equipment in the United States over eight decades of culinary history.

Advent of Modern Kitchen Equipment: The 1940s and 1950s

The 1940s saw a surge of innovations, spurred by the urgency of wartime needs. This wave of creativity extended to the commercial kitchen equipment industry, resulting in novel appliances that continue to be used today. In the 1950s, as the economy boomed and post-war rebuilding took place, kitchen equipment design further evolved. Enamel-coated and stainless steel appliances gained popularity, and larger refrigerators and ovens simplified commercial kitchen operations. This era marked the introduction of dishwashers with electric drying components, paving the way for their eventual widespread adoption in kitchens. The economy's growth also led to the creation of labor-saving appliances and improvements to existing designs, supporting culinary tasks.

Durability, safety, easy maintenance & labour-saving!

It’s could be a tagline of the epoch. Here are the main 40s–50s trends:

Stainless steel

Designers incorporated stainless steel panels and parts in kitchen cabinets, cupboards, drawers, and even appliances.

Enamel-coating

Enamel-coated appliances gained popularity, and larger refrigerators and ovens simplified commercial kitchen operations.

Functional design

Most equipment creators directed their focus on functional design in the 40s and 50s. Embellishments had taken a backseat.

Automotive design influences

Advancements in the automobile sector complimented appliance design, with panels and a contoured aesthetic taking over.

New appliances

Microwave oven

1947 witnessed the invention of the first microwave oven; an appliance that would revolutionize all future kitchens. Microwave ovens soon gained popularity and producers began raking in sales.

Dishwasher

The foundations of the modern dishwasher were laid in the 40s, with drying and front load designs appearing in the decade. But dishwasher would become commonplace in commercial kitchens only in the subsequent decades.

Here’s a general overview of the common appliances through the 1940s and 1950s and their associated developments: 

• Refrigerators: The modern two-door refrigerator configuration first appeared in the 1940s, with a freezer compartment on the top. Smaller refrigerators came with a single door and with an in-built freezer section. The 1940s witnessed the first use of the infamous chemical Freon, for refrigeration and other cooling applications. Most fridges were white and came with well-defined shelves and drawers to ensure the economic use of space. The 50s witnessed further improvements and saw several avant-garde design developments in refrigerators. This included wall-mounted, cabinet-style models and centrally placed large refrigerators with pull-out draws. The 1950s saw the gradual transition of refrigerator embellishments from white external panels to stainless steel finishings. 
• Stoves: Both electric and gas stoves were commonplace throughout the 40s and 50s. Four and six-burner stoves were the go-to for restaurants and large households. Designs featuring ovens and attached broilers gained traction in these decades, combining multiple functionalities in a single unit to save space in the kitchen. Commercial models even featured attached griddles that could be used to make popular breakfast foods. Advancements in the automobile sector complimented stove design, with panels and a contoured aesthetic taking over. By the 50s, most stoves had a dashboard along with timers and other mechanical automation controls. 
• Ovens: Most ovens in the 40s and 50s had been combined with stoves for ergonomics. However, standalone ovens also existed. 1947 witnessed the invention of the first microwave oven; an appliance that would revolutionize all future kitchens. Microwave ovens soon gained popularity and producers began raking in sales. Throughout the 1950s, microwave ovens would witness sales in both commercial and domestic capacities. However, since the initial models were strapped by tedious maintenance requirements, it was only in the 1960s that microwaves experienced true high-volume sales. 
• Other Appliances & Kitchen Tools: The foundations of the modern dishwasher were laid in the 40s, with drying and front load designs appearing in the decade. Despite the labor-saving potential, steep price tags and maintenance would keep sales limited, and the dishwasher would become commonplace in commercial kitchens only in the subsequent decades. Small appliances like standing mixer grinders, blenders, and toasters were also increasingly incorporated into everyday kitchen operations, furthering the trend of mechanized kitchen tasks. Toasters and kettles witnessed developments throughout the 1940s and 50s, with a focus being placed on size, maintenance, and safety. Coffee makers were endowed with filters, pumps, and vacuum technology that had seen the light of day in the 1930s. Companies capitalized on the increased demand for beverages in these decades and constantly improved existing designs by creating standing espresso makers and French presses. 

Increased Incorporation of Stainless Steel

The war effort yielded newer and more efficient techniques in the production of steel. This resulted in increased availability of high-quality steel and also a demand for durable appliances and storage compartments in the kitchen. Designers incorporated stainless steel panels and parts in kitchen cabinets, cupboards, drawers, and even appliances. Cabinets often reached the ceiling and maximum storage space was prioritized. Stainless steel countertops and wall-mounted sinks were commonplace as hygiene and maintenance garnered increased prominence in the post-war period. Sinks were outfitted with high backsplashes and had either one or two wells with a drainboard. The appearance of durable vehicles promoted the usage of stainless steel panels across industries, including small kitchen appliances. This led to their increased lifespans and ease of maintenance. 

Functional Design & Efficient Operations

Most equipment creators directed their focus on functional design in the 40s and 50s. Embellishments had taken a backseat and the appearance of minimalist design had begun in the kitchen equipment space. Ease of use was another crucial component as higher demand had to be capitalized: tedious operations would mean reduced efficiency in a commercial establishment. Equipment designers prioritized labor-saving elements, and popularized designs that could be operated with minimal knowledge of the appliance itself, essentially laying the groundwork for most modern appliances we know today.

The Aesthetic Age: Equipment of the 1960s and 1970s

During the 1960s and 70s, there was a growing emphasis on aesthetics in kitchen design. Luxury and comfort were the hallmarks of this era, with appliances being designed to allow users to customize them to match their interior decor. Warm and bright colors were particularly popular, and the dishwasher became more commonplace in homes during this time. Rather than modernizing kitchens, designers focused on improving existing equipment to enhance customer comfort. However, the consumerist approach to sales meant that appliances were created with shorter lifespans, resulting in frequent replacement. Manufacturers also added additional features and enhancements to make their appliances more attractive to customers.

As part of this trend, newer approaches to ovens emerged, with many of them being placed within cabinets or under hobs on the kitchen counter. The cooking center became more prominent, allowing for better space utilization within the kitchen. Additionally, the mainstreaming of the dishwasher and other non-kitchen appliances such as washers and dryers allowed for greater freedom and leisure in the kitchen. These changes meant that households could spend less time on chores and more time relaxing in the kitchen. However, the focus on aesthetics and luxury came at a cost, as it led to an increase in consumerism and waste, with appliances being frequently replaced due to their short lifespans.

Style, luxury, comfort & customization!

It’s could be a tagline of the epoch. Here are the main 60s–70s trends:

Additional features

Manufacturers also added additional features and enhancements to make their appliances more attractive to customers.

Warm and bright colors

were particularly popular, and the dishwasher became more commonplace in homes during this time.

Minimalism

Smooth curves and minimalist design became commonplace, with a focus on space conservation and the inclusion of simple elements.

Space age influences

The space race was reaching a fever pitch, which led to a lot of design adjustments that emulated the country’s effort toward putting men on the moon.

New aesthetics

Kitchen accessories also gained prominence in these decades as customization gained prominence. Pop art was popular and the kitchen became the showcase for these miniature exhibitions of abstractions. Andy Warhol’s pioneering movement had a long-lasting impact on the kitchen aesthetic, and themes that arose from his visual art niche quickly found a place in the kitchen of the 60s and 70s.

Furniture designs from the 60s and 70s might still seem relevant to this day, given that these concepts formed the basis for several modern design move-ments.

Kitchen islands, tulip tables, and Eames chairs were the defining pieces of furniture that screamed the 60s and 70s, being favorites of most households that looked to spruce up their kitchen decor.

The Rise of Colored Appliances & Equipment

Bright shades of colors like sky blue, harvest gold, avocado green, mustard yellow, copper brown, and burnt orange were prominent across all appliances and kitchen embellishments throughout the 1960s and 1970s. What began as an emerging trend in the 60s turned into widespread adoption by the 70s. While the stainless steel theme in appliances had taken a backseat, it remained an option for takers throughout these decades. Other color schemes that became popular in the latter half of the 70s include poppy red, off-white, and tawny gold shades. Demand for bright colors and matching appliance sets surged due to increased socialization among groups, and the generalized presence of most kitchen equipment across all kitchens. Thus, customization remained central to maintaining uniqueness.

Widespread Minimalism & Design Transformations

The space race was reaching a fever pitch in the 60s and 70s, which led to a lot of design adjustments that emulated the country’s effort toward putting men on the moon. This had a broad impact on all industries, including the kitchen equipment sector. Smooth curves and minimalist design became commonplace, with a focus on space conservation and the inclusion of simple elements as opposed to complex constructions and intricate patterns. This minimalism was also propelled by a nationwide obsession with futurism and an increased focus on the advent and mastery of nuclear power that had been developed just 2-3 decades prior.

Kitchen accessories also gained prominence in these decades as customization gained prominence. Pop art was popular and the kitchen became the showcase for these miniature exhibitions of abstractions. Andy Warhol’s pioneering movement had a long-lasting impact on the kitchen aesthetic, and themes that arose from his visual art niche quickly found a place in the kitchen of the 60s and 70s. Crockery began displaying such themes and most kitchens were quick to adopt these trends to further add color and vibrance.

Appearance-centric Kitchen Layouts and Decor

Kitchens were seen as a place to relax in the 60s and 70s. Kitchen walls were often plastered with floral wallpapers that contained mellow yet attractive designs. The colors were bright and complemented the vinyl flooring. Laminates were popular for their sheen, and pop was something that defined the color tones in the two decades. All appliances were customizable, allowing owners to standardize the color schemes in their kitchens. Checkered floors were commonplace and often brought contrast to the rather bright environment. Furniture was also characterized by minimalism and ergonomic designs. Furniture designs from the 60s and 70s might still seem relevant to this day, given that these concepts formed the basis for several modern design movements.

Kitchen islands, tulip tables, and Eames chairs were the defining pieces of furniture that screamed the 60s and 70s, being favorites of most households that looked to spruce up their kitchen decor. For smaller kitchens, bistro tables and chairs with barstool legs were the go-tos. Sunburst design wall embellishments, tiled walls, and geometric designs further added to the overall aesthetic of the kitchen and were defining elements of the 60s and 70s kitchens.

Glamor, Technology, and the Information Age: Cooking in the 1980s and 1990s

By the 80s and the 90s, computers and the tech industry had grown to bring about considerable transformations in information processing. These novel capabilities brought about widespread changes to the kitchen. These decades witnessed the first true inclusion of electronics in kitchen equipment, integrating chipsets within control panels and dashboards, along with displays. These decades set the standard for the integration of digital technology with cooking equipment and essentially meant that devices would now feature “smart” functions. The progressive growth of the internet meant that the first internet-controlled kitchen appliance was out in the market by 1990. Kitchens were still seen as areas in the house where both activity and socializing could happen side-by-side and all kitchens were designed to accommodate both functionality and leisure. However, it must be noted that kitchens and their equipment were further enhanced to make them visually appealing. Customization remained central, however, and muted tones and soft shades gained prominence over the previous decades’ bright colors. The 90s brought about further minimalism and monochromatic kitchens to usher in uniformity.

Digitalization, time-saving & energy efficiency!

It’s could be a tagline of the epoch. Here are the main 80s–90s trends:

Digital controls

began taking over kitchen appliances and replaced existing manual and mechanical controls on devices like ovens, refrigerators, and mixers.

Muted color palette

Muted tones and soft shades gained prominence over the previous decades’ bright colors.

Ventilated spaces

Improvements in ventilation gave rise to sleek and efficient extractor hoods that promoted breathable kitchen environments.

Environmental friendliness

The conscious populace began adopting energy-saving appliances in larger numbers, forcing manufacturers to adapt their business models around ecologically prudent practices.

New technologies

By the 90s, nearly 90% of all American households had a microwave oven in their kitchens, and the ease of use brought by the integration of computer chips and electronic dashboards made operations simpler. Other appliances like the food processor reached peak popularity in the 1980s despite their mainstreaming in the previous decades.

Commercial dishwashers had already become an integral part of the modern kitchen by the time the 80s rolled around. Manufacturers capitalized on improving existing designs and introduced the concept of multiple wash cycles, thanks to the arrival of electronic sensors and controls. Rinse and hold cycles made cleaning up extremely convenient.

Computers, Chipsets, and Cooking

Digital controls began taking over kitchen appliances and replaced existing manual and mechanical controls on devices like ovens, refrigerators, and mixers. The microwave oven earned great popularity in the 80s, and the markets were flooded with microwave recipes. Time-saving was a core priority and microwave ovens further shortened the amount of time people spent while cooking food in the kitchen. By the 90s, nearly 90% of all American households had a microwave oven in their kitchens, and the ease of use brought by the integration of computer chips and electronic dashboards made operations simpler. Other appliances like the food processor reached peak popularity in the 1980s despite their mainstreaming in the previous decades. Shared labor in the kitchen meant that cooks of all genders preferred to keep their cooking prep simplistic with quick processes. Refrigerators, like microwave ovens, became computer-controlled with several in-built sensors that could trigger compressor adjustments to external temperatures.

While touch-screen displays go back to the later 60s and early 70s, they would make a gradual entry into the kitchen space with select models of microwave ovens and fridges being outfitted with these novel technologies. However, touchscreen appliances carried exorbitant price tags and would not become mainstream until the 2000s. Another appliance of the 80s kitchen was the automatic coffeemaker. These devices switched from brew to warm cycles autonomously without the need for human control. This greatly improved handling and raised the consumption of coffee in the average household. Various models with both digital and analog timers became available. These coffeemakers were endowed with analog designs and came with a carafe built for the unit. In the 90s, automatic coffeemaker designs were further improved, and clunky models were virtually done away with. Sleek and space-conserving models were the in thing, much in line with the overall 90s aesthetic.

Commercial Dishwashers had already become an integral part of the modern kitchen by the time the 80s rolled around. Manufacturers capitalized on improving existing designs and introduced the concept of multiple wash cycles, thanks to the arrival of electronic sensors and controls. Rinse and hold cycles made cleaning up extremely convenient, and allowed users to carry out other tasks without worrying about manual controls and adjustments to the dishwashing process.

A Focus on Spacious and Ventilated Spaces

Kitchens in the 80s had become larger, making space for both cooking and leisure activities in the kitchen. The trend of socializing in the kitchen that had been established in the 70s attained true fruition in the 80s. Spacious layouts and modular storage units made way for free movement and larger furniture placement within the kitchen. Improvements in ventilation gave rise to sleek and efficient extractor hoods that promoted breathable kitchen environments. Advanced air conditioning directly influenced much-needed technical augmentation in vent hoods, and companies began popularizing the need for these appliances.

The kitchen island remained relevant to 80s and 90s kitchens and users prioritized free movement. These decades witnessed the resurgence of the pantry despite the fairly widespread presence of cabinets and storage racks. Walk-in pantries were popular and often the go-to storage option. Cabinets were often made of wood. Oak was of specific interest to most users and laminates were widespread in the 80s. Off-white, ivory, and cream were popular choices in color, alongside muted pastel tones. Increased natural light in the kitchen was brought into focus and the necessity of bright colors was done away with. The walls still sported wallpapers, albeit with designs that weren’t as loud. The 90s witnessed a lesser prevalence of wallpapers and featured monochromatic cabinets that were either completely white or black.

Countertops in the 80s were commonly made of tiles with the transition to granite becoming common by the 90s. Despite popular trends prevailing throughout the two decades, personalization was back in vogue by the mid-1990s. However, most color schemes revolved around white and beige tones to give the kitchen a soft aesthetic. Kitchen utensils like pots and pans over the countertops were considered both attractive and functionally relevant in the 1990s, making kitchens in the decade both attractive and practical.

Automation and Energy Efficiency

Concerns surrounding the impact of a consumerist lifestyle on the global environment had gained traction in the 80s, leading to major policy changes and rethinks. Freons were systematically phased out from the early 1990s and witnessed a virtual ban by 1996. Alternative refrigerants became the norm and companies began assessing their environmental burden. Further advancements in computing allowed for the automation of tasks and kitchen appliance designers focused on consuming both effort and energy. The American government launched the Energy Star program in 1992, which provided benefits to both manufacturers and users of appliances that were environment-friendly. New appliances like food warmers became popular, which made rewarming food virtually unnecessary. This allowed commercial food establishments to maintain prepared food at a constant temperature instead of wasting energy on reheating.

The conscious populace began adopting energy-saving appliances in larger numbers, forcing manufacturers to adapt their business models around ecologically prudent practices. Sustainable development was repeatedly emphasized, and the conservation of water and the protection of water bodies was popularized. Smaller variants of larger appliances like the George Foreman grill appeared by the mid-1990s and users began choosing smaller, more viable counterparts to cut back on their carbon footprint.

Multimodal Equipment, Sustainability, and Sleek Designs: Kitchens in the 2000s & 2010s 

With the dawn of the new millennium, the mainstreaming of kitchen design trends helped modern takes on kitchen decor and appliances reach nearly every household. Sleek aesthetics dominated the 2000s despite the presence of wooden cabinets and large appliances. People preferred the dominance of stainless steel across the kitchen and the usage of the material was back in popularity by the mid-00s. The establishment of energy awareness and perks for using eco-friendly kitchen appliances had finally become a popular choice. Energy ratings became central to consumers’ purchasing decisions. Sustainability also garnered attention in these decades and designers were eager to bring in materials like bamboo, glass, and recycled plastic to kitchens and appliances. An industrial look dominated most kitchens throughout the 2000s and 2010s, however, bright tones were also incorporated in cabinets and some countertops to balance out the overall monochrome feel. Barely visible handles, recessed doors, and smooth contours were characteristic of fittings in most kitchens and large appliances. Space management, multi-function components, and efficiency were central to the 00s and 10s.

Industrial aesthetics, planet-consciousness, & energy awareness

It’s could be a tagline of the epoch. Here are the main 00s–10s trends:

Stainless is back in trend

Stainless steel’s resurgent popularity meant that the sleek appearance of steel appliances and accessories became a status symbol and a sign of prosperity.

Brightness & monochrome

Bright tones were also incorporated in cabinets and some countertops to balance out the overall monochrome feel.

Eco-friendly appliances

The establishment of energy awareness and perks for using eco-friendly kitchen appliances had finally become a popular choice.

Industrial aesthetics

An industrial look dominated most kitchens throughout the 2000s and 2010s.

New efficiency

The 2000s and 2010s focused on bringing together sustainable materials and energy efficiency. Technology witnessed rapid advances and brought about the contemporary look in the kitchen that’s visible to this day. Appliances were built to be energy, cost, and space-efficient. 

The 2000s and 2010s would showcase a steady rate of progress in the technological realm and its associated trickle-down effect that helped make kitchens ‘smarter’ and more energy-efficient. 

Industrial Aesthetics, Planet-consciousness, and Continued Energy Awareness

The 2000s and 2010s focused on bringing together sustainable materials and energy efficiency. Locally sourced components and buying from domestic producers were emphasized. Technology witnessed rapid advances and brought about the contemporary look in the kitchen that’s visible to this day. Appliances were built to be energy, cost, and space-efficient. Moreover, the reduction of noise in appliances like the dishwasher and refrigerator was also prioritized, allowing kitchens to operate more quietly. Stainless steel’s resurgent popularity meant that the sleek appearance of steel appliances and accessories became a status symbol and a sign of prosperity. Further advancements were also made in reducing labor-intensive tasks like cutting vegetables, and devices like the Slap-Chop became quite popular in the early 2000s. Blenders acquired a more compact design and products like the Magic Bullet raked in sales that went upwards of 3 million units. Appliances also dictated food trends, and unique tools like the vegetable spiralizer became extremely popular by the mid-2010s.

Countertops in the kitchen still sported black granite, however, homeowners also chose to dabble in the extremes when it came to contrast by outfitting their kitchens with light-colored cabinets beneath these dark granite tops. Deep red and tan hues also gained considerable traction in the first two decades of the new millennium and Tuscan styles were commonplace in several kitchens. Wood cabinets remained popular and kitchen decor incorporated recyclable materials heavily. Repurposed furniture and salvaged wood were frequently used in creating decor for home kitchens, making way for a trend that would dominate the 2000s.

The 2010s, on the other hand, witnessed a short-lived revival of the vintage look. Wooden flooring was back along with more neutral tones in the kitchen. Apart from the industrial-age greys and slates, muted blues and navy tones were also carefully splattered across the kitchens of the decade.

Kitchen decor and shelving were primarily made from wood and materials like glass. The shift to recyclable components was definitive of conscious consumerism throughout the 00s and 10s. Terra cotta and bamboo found increased presence in both accessories and decor, with kitchen tiles and recesses being embellished by these sustainable materials. Pantries and spacious kitchens continued to remain popular, with the kitchen remaining a place of congregation and leisure, including food prep and cooking. 

Smart Kitchens and Digital Appliances

In line with the progress made in the 90s, the 00s witnessed an increase in the production of smart appliances. The first internet-controlled fridge saw the light of day in the year 2000. Improvements in sensors and digital technologies enhanced the application of complex electronics in kitchen appliances. Touchscreens were mainstreamed by the surge in demand for compact computers and mobile devices. Digital controls became popular by the 2010s, and refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, cooktops, and other large commercial kitchen appliances were all outfitted with touchscreen digital dashboards. Complex chipsets also made way for preset functionalities and allowed users to choose from several modes of operation to save time and effort.

The Internet of Things had a practical and conceptual basis by the end of the 2000s. Subsequently, equipment was connected to communication networks like Bluetooth and wireless internet by the mid-2010s, and the Internet of Things had arrived in the kitchen for good. Complex computing also made way for more user control over each of these appliances. Users could customize their preferences and operate appliances based on their individual or commercial necessities. Clunkiness had virtually disappeared from most machines and accommodating the maximum number of components in the lowest amount of space found prominence throughout these two decades.

Multi-functional Equipment & New Inventions

Prioritization of energy conservation and minimizing carbon emissions led to the development of multifunction appliances that could carry out several essential roles in the kitchen. The two decades witnessed the launch of refrigerators with inbuilt water and ice filters & dispensers. A few models also contained coffeemakers. Combination ovens were a remarkable advancement that made way for increased efficiency, space management, and power conservation. The invention of appliances such as the induction cooktop served to reduce the average kitchen’s reliance on natural gas derivatives and carried favorable Energy Star ratings to promote the switch to full-fledged electrical cooking. This was further bolstered by stoves integrating induction technology, and dedicated induction cooktops with an attached oven became popular by the end of the 2010s. On the other hand, the air fryer hit the market shelves in 2010 and served the growing demand centered around health-conscious diet choices. The 2000s and 2010s would showcase a steady rate of progress in the technological realm and its associated trickle-down effect that helped make kitchens ‘smarter’ and more energy-efficient. 

The Pandemic, Hygiene, and AI Takeover: The 2020s’ Kitchen

The current decade got off to a troubled start with the COVID-19 pandemic forcing lockdowns and economic stagnation. Falling demand was signaled by an overall reduction in spending, and people remained frugal in preparation for the worst. However, kitchens, both domestic and commercial, adapted to the new circumstances, and existing concepts like cloud kitchens and food delivery became commonplace. While the pandemic is now behind us, these establishments will remain relevant since people’s eating habits and mentalities toward dining out have transformed drastically. A renewed focus on hygiene and sanitation became necessary as the risk of disease was near-constant. Appliance manufacturers and food suppliers rushed to meet these requirements and modeled their offerings around apparent realities. The decade’s initial years have also been defined by long strides in artificial intelligence and machine learning, along with crucial advances in wireless communication. Smart appliances have gained a greater foothold in the domestic kitchen market and will continue to remain a trend in the coming years. Users remain focused on ease of use and convenience in all of their kitchen machinery.

A New Generation of Smart Appliances

Kitchen appliances are entering the next stage of their evolution. Wireless technologies are now being outfitted in refrigerators, crock pots, ovens, and even stovetops. Speed enhancements and range improvements in Bluetooth and WiFi have enabled users to control their kitchen appliances from their mobile devices. Moreover, voice-controlled personal assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant are being linked to these appliances. Personal assistant devices allow users to control their kitchen machinery through voice-activated controls. On the other hand, artificial intelligence and machine learning are also transforming kitchen equipment. Users can now access live footage of their fridge’s interior through a small camera, controlled by their mobile device. Linked to an app, image recognition technology identifies the products in the fridge and makes intuitive recipe recommendations based on existing ingredients stocked within.

Similarly, intelligent ovens and broilers are gradually making their presence known in the market. Outfitted with an HD camera and attached processors, the device communicates live footage to the onboard computer that relies on several sensors to ensure cooking happens based on user preferences and by relying on visual cues. User preferences are communicated to the oven’s computer via a convenient mobile application linked to it through wireless technology. Manufacturers are rapidly integrating wireless thermometers and heat sensors within crockpots and pans that allow users to track their food’s doneness even when they’re outside their houses. The Internet of Things has been taking on its true shape in the current decade, and further enhancements will continue throughout the remaining years. Similar technologies in ovens and stoves allow users to pre-heat them and also augment cooking temperatures without the need for physical manipulation of onboard controls.

Auto-assist functions in refrigerators are the new thing, with manufacturers outfitting refrigerators with onboard voice-activated controls. Other devices like cooling pans have become the experimental playing ground for advanced sensors that detect the food placed in them and are also able to provide insights like caloric content and weight of the food prepared by communicating with users’ mobile devices. Preset cooking functions have gained further prominence in the current decade. Multicookers with intelligent cooking settings that allow users to choose from a range of pre-loaded appliance preferences are now available, helping users save time and cook nutritious meals. Artificial intelligence will continue to witness more powerful iterations. Sooner or later, all of these enhancements will invariably make it to the kitchen, thanks to an increasingly interlinked world of gadgets. 

Food Safety, Hygiene, and Quality’s Precedence

The pandemic came as a moment of reckoning that shocked the culinary world into prioritizing sanitation and food safety. Learnings from previous outbreaks and epidemics came in handy when augmenting the approach to combating the contagion. Produce safety was prioritized and food shortages had to be avoided. Local procurement was promoted as imports fell with supply chain failures. Multi-level quality checks and standardized disinfection procedures were popularized in the wake of lockdowns. Food supplies continued despite restrictions that ensured the illness’ spread was stymied. Contactless food and grocery deliveries became the norm. A new line of food storage and distribution systems emerged that minimized individual contact with surfaces and reduced the chances of contamination. Deliveries were directed to designated areas and drop-off points that had elaborate sanitation protocols.

Concepts like traceability and supply chain transparency gained prominence as users looked to buy locally produced items. A renewed health consciousness and climate awareness further enhanced these attitudes. Food safety will continue to remain a priority throughout this decade. Fumigation and surface disinfection tools were re-emphasized in kitchens across the board, and safe cooking practices have been re-emphasized for both commercial and home cooks.

The ‘Health First’ Approach

Transmission concerns in the pandemic made way for the arrival of surface disinfection devices like eco-friendly UV-C lamps. These came especially handy for commercial cooking operations that had to carry out large-scale disinfection of cooking ingredients on an everyday basis. Apart from large lamps placed above countertops and platforms, small disinfection chambers were also made available for domestic use and applications. Commercial operations prioritized the safety of their employees and air purifiers became a critical part of the restaurant kitchen. These devices also found greater degrees of acceptance in the household as the pandemic progressed. The focus on health and health-centric devices is set to stay, with manufacturers emphasizing the necessity of these appliances in what still remains a turbulent period as far as diseases and infections go.

To Wrap Up!

The kitchen and its appliances have undergone several cycles of evolution. These cycles are often complex, with several resurgent trends making themselves known in successive decades. On average, humans spend less time cooking in the kitchen today, thanks to an increased focus on the efficiency and technical prowess of civilization, making intense labor in the cooking space a thing of the past. Advances in other realms of technology have also influenced kitchen appliances greatly and will continue to remain relevant in the age of artificial intelligence and autonomous devices. The current decade will remain focused on health alongside the development of AI and internet-supported kitchen appliances. Future kitchens are set to be more efficient and will consume less energy than ever before, allowing humans to be as meticulous as possible when it comes to cooking and meal prep.