Ep 4. Apocalypse Chow

In Eating History season 1 episode 4, titled Apocalypse Chow, vintage food experts Old Smokey and Josh Macuga travel to a bomb shelter in rural Pennsylvania to sample and learn about the unique canned goods and other provisions that were once considered essential in case of a nuclear attack during the Cold War era.

As they explore the shelter, which was built in the 1960s to protect government officials from the threat of a Soviet attack, Old Smokey and Josh encounter an array of preserved foods that have been in hibernation for over 50 years. From canned meats and stews to powdered eggs and milk, the duo dives into a world of canned goods that were specifically designed to sustain life in the event of a nuclear apocalypse.

As they sample the vintage food items, Old Smokey and Josh share their thoughts and opinions on the flavors and textures of the preserved foods. Some of the foods, such as the powdered milk and eggs, are surprisingly still edible and tasty, while others, like the canned meats and stews, are less than appetizing for modern palates.

Throughout the episode, Old Smokey and Josh also provide historical context about the Cold War era and the fears that led to the creation of bomb shelters and the stocking of provisions like these. They discuss the government propaganda that was used to promote the idea of preparing for a potential nuclear attack and provide insight into what life would have been like for those who actually had to rely on these foods during a time of crisis.

Overall, Apocalypse Chow is a fascinating look into the history of preserved foods and the measures people took to prepare for worst-case scenarios during a tense time in world history. As always, Old Smokey and Josh provide entertaining commentary and insights that make this episode a must-watch for fans of vintage culture and history.