Ep 1. Lines in the Sand

In The Food That Built America season 1 episode 1, titled 'Lines in the Sand,' viewers can take a trip down memory lane to the early days of the food industry in the United States. The episode explores the pioneering companies and individuals who paved the way for the development of a multi-billion dollar industry that is now a cornerstone of the American economy.

The episode starts by highlighting the rivalry and competition between two of the industry's biggest names - Kellogg and Post. Both companies were locked in a battle to create and sell the perfect cereal, with each attempting to outdo the other in terms of taste, texture, and nutritional value. Viewers will learn the key strategies each company employed to appeal to consumers and stay ahead in this cut-throat industry.

Next, the episode delves into the world of fast food, showcasing the vision and drive of Ray Kroc, the founder of McDonald's. Kroc recognized early on the potential of fast food as a booming industry and set out to create a fast food empire that would revolutionize the entire industry. The show explores just how Kroc built a franchise system that was able to take over the globe, leaving competitors in the dust.

Alongside these two major players, viewers are also introduced to the unsung heroes who played crucial roles in the creation of some of America's favorite foods. From the man who invented Cracker Jacks - a snack that would become synonymous with baseball - to the Scottish immigrant who created the world's first ice cream cone, we learn about the ingenious and creative individuals who helped shape the industry we know today.

All of these stories are woven together in a compelling narrative that highlights the grit, determination, and hunger that drove these individuals to create some of the most beloved and instantly recognizable brands in the world. Along the way, the episode also takes a deeper look at the cultural and societal shifts that allowed for these brands to thrive, from increasing urbanization to the changing attitudes towards gender roles and work.

Overall, The Food That Built America season 1 episode 1 is a fascinating and engrossing deep dive into the origins of one of America's most important and beloved industries. It's a must-watch for anyone with an interest in food and business, and a perfect introduction to a show that will leave viewers both entertained and enlightened.