Revealed: the surprising origin of corn flakes that will shock you

The beloved breakfast staple, corn flakes, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over a century. The journey of how this iconic cereal came to be is a tale of innovation, experimentation, and a quest for a healthier lifestyle.

The Adventists and the Pursuit of Good Health

In the late 19th century, the Seventh-day Adventist Church emerged as a leading advocate for healthy living. Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, a prominent Adventist physician, dedicated his life to promoting vegetarianism and other health-conscious practices.

The Invention of Granula

In 1863, Dr. Kellogg began experimenting with different ways to create a nutritious and digestible cereal. He believed that a diet rich in whole grains could prevent various health ailments.

After numerous trials, Dr. Kellogg stumbled upon a mixture of wheat, oats, and cornmeal that he baked into a hard dough. He then broke the dough into small pieces and toasted them, creating a crunchy cereal he named “granula.”

The Role of Will Kellogg

Dr. Kellogg’s brother, Will Keith Kellogg, played a crucial role in the development of corn flakes. After tasting granula, Will found it too hard and gritty. He suggested adding sugar to make it more palatable.

In 1895, Will began experimenting with granula in his own kitchen. He added sugar, salt, and water to the mixture and rolled it into thin flakes. He then toasted the flakes until they became crispy and golden brown.

The Birth of Corn Flakes

Will Kellogg realized that his new cereal had a lighter texture and a more appealing flavor than granula. He decided to focus on producing this new creation and named it “corn flakes.”

In 1898, Will Kellogg and his brother founded the Sanitas Food Company, which later became the Kellogg Company. They began selling corn flakes in bulk to health food stores and sanitariums.

Commercial Success and Health Claims

Corn flakes quickly gained popularity as a breakfast cereal. Will Kellogg marketed it as a healthy alternative to traditional breakfast foods, such as bacon and eggs. He claimed that corn flakes could help with digestive problems, weight loss, and even cancer.

However, some of Kellogg’s health claims were later disputed by the medical community. Nevertheless, corn flakes remained a popular breakfast choice due to its convenience and perceived health benefits.

Innovations and Variations

Over the years, the Kellogg Company has introduced various innovations and variations of corn flakes. These include:

• Frosted Corn Flakes (1952): Corn flakes coated with a sweet sugar glaze.
• Honey Smacks (1953): Corn flakes sweetened with honey.
• Apple Jacks (1965): Corn flakes shaped like interlocking rings and flavored with apple and cinnamon.
• Corn Pops (1970): Corn flakes made with a blend of corn and rice, resulting in a sweeter and lighter texture.

Summary: A Legacy of Innovation and Nutrition

The origin of corn flakes is a testament to the relentless pursuit of a healthier lifestyle and the power of innovation. From its humble beginnings as a health food to its status as a beloved breakfast staple, corn flakes have played a significant role in shaping our dietary habits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who invented corn flakes?
A: Will Keith Kellogg invented corn flakes in 1895.

Q: What are the main ingredients in corn flakes?
A: Corn flakes are made from cornmeal, sugar, salt, and water.

Q: Are corn flakes healthy?
A: Corn flakes provide some nutritional value, such as fiber and B vitamins, but they are also high in sugar and processed carbohydrates.

Q: What is the difference between corn flakes and granula?
A: Corn flakes are thinner and crispier than granula, and they have a sweeter flavor due to the addition of sugar.

Q: What are some popular variations of corn flakes?
A: Some popular variations of corn flakes include Frosted Corn Flakes, Honey Smacks, Apple Jacks, and Corn Pops.