Ep 2. Crunchy

Unwrapped 2.0 is a television show that explores popular snack foods and their unique origins, manufacturing processes, and key ingredients. Every episode delves deep into a particular snack food category and unveils the mystery behind how they are made, how they have changed over time, and how they are perceived in popular culture. In season 2 episode 2, titled "Crunchy", the show focuses on snacks that have a satisfying crunch, such as chips, crackers, and popcorn.

The episode begins with a fun and lively introduction from the host, Alfonso Ribeiro, who explains the central theme of the episode and shares some interesting trivia about crunchy snacks. He then takes viewers on a journey across the United States to visit several top snack food manufacturers, artisanal makers, and snack enthusiasts. Along the way, he interviews industry experts, taste testers, and consumers to get a sense of what makes these snacks so irresistible.

The first segment of the show features a visit to a popcorn factory in Buffalo, NY. The host meets with the owners and operators of the factory who show him how they make their famous gourmet popcorn. He learns that there are dozens of varieties of popcorn kernels with different sizes, shapes, and flavors. He also sees how the popcorn is mixed with flavorful seasonings and toppings to create unique tastes such as caramel, cheddar, and jalapeno. The host even gets hands-on experience making his own batch of popcorn and tries out some of the unique flavor combinations.

Next, the show explores the world of tortilla chips, visiting a factory in Texas where they are made. The host learns about the ingredients that go into tortilla chips, and sees how they are cooked and seasoned. He also discovers that tortilla chips are not just for dipping, but can also be used to make creative dishes such as nachos and even dessert. The host also visits a restaurant that specializes in gourmet nachos and gets a chance to sample some of the unique flavor combinations.

In the third segment of the episode, the show takes a closer look at crackers. The host visits a bakery in Vermont that has been making artisanal crackers for over 60 years. He learns about the process of making crackers from scratch, starting with mixing the dough to cutting and baking the crackers. He also sees the unique flavor combinations that the bakery produces, such as cheddar cheese and rosemary, and tries some of the different types of crackers.

Finally, the show visits a snack museum in Missouri that features exhibits on the history of snacks in America. The host explores the various exhibits, learning about the evolution of snacks over time, and trying out some classic snack foods. He also learns about some of the most popular snack foods in America, such as potato chips and pretzels, and how they have become staples in American culture.

Throughout the episode, the host shares fascinating facts and statistics about crunchy snacks, such as which ones are the most popular, how much Americans spend on snacks each year, and the science behind why we crave them. The show also features a fun tasting competition where the host and a guest judge different snack foods and rate them on various criteria including taste and crunchiness.

Overall, Unwrapped 2.0 season 2 episode 2 "Crunchy" is a fun and informative exploration of some of the most beloved snack foods in America. The show highlights the creativity and ingenuity of snack makers and the changing tastes of consumers over time. It is a must-watch for anyone who loves to snack and wants to learn more about the fascinating world of crunchy snacks.