The Food That Built America Snack Sized Season 1 Episode 15 Kings of Pop

The Food That Built America Snack Sized season 1 episode 15, titled Kings of Pop, delves into the history behind one of the most beloved and iconic American snack foods: popcorn.

The episode begins by introducing Charles Cretors, a man credited with revolutionizing the popcorn industry with his invention of the first commercial popcorn machine in the late 1800s. Cretors' invention allowed popcorn to be popped and sold on a mass scale, paving the way for popcorn to become a staple snack food in movie theaters and households across the country.

The episode then explores the rise of the Orville Redenbacher brand, which took the popcorn world by storm in the mid-20th century. Brothers Orville and Charles Redenbacher, who had been experimenting with different popcorn hybrids on their Indiana farm, eventually developed a popcorn variety with exceptional taste and texture. The brothers' trademark bow ties and folksy marketing campaigns made them household names, and their popcorn became a top seller in stores nationwide.

The episode also covers the story of Chester Cheetah and the Cheetos brand, which began as a cheesy snack offered at a Texas snack food restaurant in the 1940s. The show follows the evolution of the snack, from its early days as a light and fluffy treat to its modern incarnation as a savory, crunchy delight.

Viewers will also learn about the invention of Cracker Jack, a caramel-coated popcorn and peanut snack that has been a favorite at baseball games and carnivals for over a century. Created in the late 1800s by a Chicago confectioner named Frederick William Rueckheim, Cracker Jack became famous for its secret toy surprise inside each box.

Finally, the episode explores the Popcornopolis brand, which has gained a loyal following of popcorn enthusiasts since its founding in 2003. The brand's gourmet popcorn flavors, which range from classic buttery to inventive combinations like zebra (chocolate and white cheddar) and jalapeno cheddar, have earned the company a spot in major retailers across the country.

Throughout the episode, viewers will hear from historians, food experts, and the descendants of some of the industry's pioneers, who shed light on the fascinating history of popcorn and its evolution into America's favorite snack food. With its mix of informative storytelling and mouth-watering imagery, Kings of Pop is a must-watch for anyone who loves snacking and Americana.