The Food That Built America Season 3 Episode 11 Let Them Eat Snack Cakes

In the eleventh episode of the third season of The Food That Built America, titled 'Let Them Eat Snack Cakes', viewers will discover the origins of snack cakes and how they became a staple in American households. The episode will delve into the beginnings of snack cake brands such as Twinkies and Hostess, as well as their competitors Little Debbie and Drake's.

The episode will explore the history of how snack cakes were created and the different marketing strategies used to make them the popular treats they are today. From their humble beginnings as individually wrapped sweet treats to the creation of iconic snack cake characters such as Little Debbie, the episode will take viewers on a journey through the evolution of the snack cake industry.

Additionally, the episode will highlight the impact of the Great Depression and World War II on the snack cake industry. With rations on sugar and other ingredients, snack cake companies had to adapt their recipes to meet the demands of the time. Despite these challenges, snack cakes remained popular and have continued to be a favorite snack among Americans for decades.

Viewers will also learn about the fierce competition between snack cake companies and how they constantly tried to outdo each other with new flavors, designs, and marketing strategies. The episode will showcase famous ad campaigns such as Hostess' pledge to "never squish a Twinkie" and Little Debbie's iconic tagline "unwrap a smile".

The episode will feature interviews with historians and industry experts, as well as individuals who played a significant role in the snack cake industry. Through their stories and accounts, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the influence that snack cakes have had on American culture and how they continue to be a beloved part of our snacking habits today.

Overall, 'Let Them Eat Snack Cakes' is a fascinating episode that takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through the history of snack cakes and the impact they have had on American culture. From their humble beginnings to their position as a popular snack item in households across the nation, snack cakes have truly earned their place as one of America's favorite treats.