Weird History Food

Most folks know that Colonel Harland Sanders is the man who created KFC – and still resides on their buckets – but the real Colonel Sanders got up to a lot more than just frying chicken Kentucky-style. Who was Harland Sanders? In short, he was less “finger-lickin' good” and more butt-kickin’ badass.

Let's dive into the History of Wonder Bread. Until the mid-19th century, your average loaf of bread was grainy, heavy, and dark. With innovations like mechanical slicers and refined flour, however, bread became white, fluffy, and shaped into the perfect portions to make a sandwich. The "best thing since sliced bread" hasn't always meant much, however, and the role of bread in social and political history is much more complex than a simple bread recipe. The Romans were able to distract the masses from social unrest by making sure there was plenty of "bread and circuses."

Let's take a Weird History Food journey to learn about Zima. People who grew up in the 1990s may feel some nostalgia when thinking about Surge, Shark Bites, or other discontinued foods from the '90s - and those of a certain age will remember Zima. The clear malt beverage was a huge hit when it debuted in 1993, but it wasn't long before Zima became a pop-culture punchline.

Weird History Food is taking you back to relive Chuck E. Cheese - The real-life story of Chuck E. Cheese, the global pizza franchise, is one of hubris, technological advancement, and the shifting entertainment tastes of the United States. What started as the brainchild of a video game guru looking to update the arcade concept became a cheerfully retro fast-food juggernaut that is still seeking to define itself in the internet era.

Let's talk some Beer History! For thousands of years, the history of beer was dominated by women. Ancient people worshipped female beer goddesses, female brewsters who filled Viking beer halls, and female saints who performed beer miracles. In medieval Europe, alewives made a living selling beer from their homes - until men decided they were witches. In the 16th century, men grew suspicious of female brewers, who had their own income source.

During the low-fat fad of the 1990s, Procter & Gamble believed it had attained the holy grail of low-fat yet flavorful snacks. P&G's fat substitute olestra was rebranded "Olean", and licensed to food manufacturers for use in chips and cookies. Unfortunately, for many consumers, olestra's side effects included nausea, flatulence, diarrhea, and what will forever go down in history as "anal leakage."

Weird History Food is taking you back to the 90s when Dominos, Little Caesars and Pizza Hut faced-off. With pizza, less is never more. More is more. More slices, more toppings, more cheese. Never was that more apparent than in 1993, when America's three biggest pizza chains - Pizza Hut, Domino's, and Little Caesars - launched nearly identical short-lived super-pizza concepts: the Bigfoot, the Dominator, and the Big! Big! Pizza, respectively. What all three pizzas had in common was that they were marketed not on how they tasted, but on how enormous and impractical they were.

Weird History Food is taking you back to the 80s to revisit the California Raisins. in 1986, Will Vinton and his advertising team at Foote, Cone & Belding launched a particularly innovative campaign that revolutionized the California raisin industry for the better part of a decade: the California Raisins. A fictional singing group made up of a quartet of claymation raisins who sang popular hit songs, the California Raisins - and Michael Jackson - appeared in television commercials in an effort to create an allure around the rather unremarkable dried fruit.

Weird History is taking you on a SlimFast nostalgic diet. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, supermarket shelves around the US were suddenly overflowing with different types of dieting beverages and snacks, all promising effortless weight loss. SlimFast meal replacement shakes, which had been pulled from shelves in the 1970s, were re-released in 1984 to become a big part of this '80s diet beverage trend. SlimFast's history, however, goes much deeper than its celebrity endorsements and sudden rise to success.

McDonald's has a menagerie of characters who romp about in a magical burgery world called McDonaldland, and it's as weird as you barely remember. McDonald's began with only a clown, but as the brand expanded to new markets - and appealing to children became the name of the game - the company branched out with more characters than could fit in a McDonald's ball pit. The McDonaldland characters were zanier than those of the other franchises. They were featured not only in commercials and toys but also in an animated series called 'The Wacky Adventures of Ronald McDonald'.

Weird History Food is launching you to Planet Hollywood. When we look back on the fun novelty restaurants that came out of the '90s, one question, in particular, comes to mind: what happened to Planet Hollywood? In 1996, you couldn't go two feet without bumping into a Planet Hollywood. Today, you have to wonder where the restaurants are hiding. When the movie-themed eateries first hit the scene in 1991, they seemed like an instant success. Diners were drawn in by the fun and weird food, movie props, and the possibility of eating next to their favorite movie stars, like Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger. In less than 10 years, though, the franchise closed dozens of locations and nearly collapsed.

Weird History Food is taking you around the United States to find (almost) every variety of pizza this great land has to offer. Everyone knows what goes into the perfect pizza: dough, tomato sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and your favorite toppings. But these ingredients can be refined and remixed in an infinite number of ways - that's the beauty of pizza. For evidence, look no further than the many regional offerings that put their own spin on the classic pie, like the foldable New York style or the locally inspired St. Louis style.

Weird History Food is getting nostalgic with every kid's favorite chef - Chef Boyardee. Chef Hector Boyardee was born in 1897 in Piacenza, Italy, not surprisingly with a very Italian name: Ettore Boiardi. Weird History Food will follow Chef from his humble beginnings as an 11-year-old apprentice to the iconic figure he is today. Grab some Beef Ravioli and follow Chef Boyardee's journey.

Weird History Food is reliving the sugary soda wars between Coca-Cola and Pepsi. Both Coca-Cola and Pepsi were invented during the late 1800s, and over the course of the 20th century, they competed for dominance across the globe. Coca-Cola was the front-runner from the outset and remained the leader until the 1970s. As Pepsi pushed harder to seize control of the marketplace, Coca-Cola shoved back and, in true combat-like fashion, the Coke vs. Pepsi war was born.

Weird History Food is taking you back to the 90s to relive one of McDonald's biggest and most delicious failures --- the Arch Deluxe. When it comes to finding success in the marketplace, knowing your competition is key. But even more important than understanding your competition is knowing your target customer - and this is the mistake McDonald’s made with the 1996 release of the Arch Deluxe burger.

Doritos history? I'll have a bag...Weird History Food is going to get your fingers nice and sticky red on this one because we're talking all about the history of one of the most beloved chips: Doritos. Weird History Food will take you through Doritos' surprising origins and its ties to Disney. Yes, that Disney. Crunch away on this one and watch the damage to the roof of your mouth.

Weird History Food is taking you on a Junk Food trip, through each decade, to see what were the most popular foods and snacks. The most impressive aspect of junk food developed throughout the 20th century is just how many of the inventions stuck around. Before the Industrial Revolution, most of what we would now consider “junk food” was made at home on a small scale. While the invention of the steel mill and steam power was certainly useful and revolutionary, the more whimsical effects of the societal overhaul are worthy of analysis as well. The developments in food science expanded while mass production grew more sophisticated, enabling the American public to experience a wide array of new snacks.

Weird History Food introduces you to one of the most influential people for childhood snack nostalgia. William A. Mitchell helped create some of your favorite childhood food, snacks, and drinks. Mitchell is a food-inventing legend creating everything from Pop Rocks to Tang to Instant Jello to Cool Whip. William A. Mitchell received some 70 patents over a career that spanned almost four decades.

Weird History Food is covering some classic McDonald's Commercial Mascots. Portrayed by a young Doug Jones wearing a 'Mac Tonight' mask, Mac was the epitome of cool, as far as crescent moon-headed coolness goes. Depicted playing a piano and singing jazz-themed jingles, the McDonald’s Moon Man became an instant hit the world over. He appears innocent enough, but behind the catchy tune and smiling visage lies a history entangled in homicide-themed pop songs, lawsuits, the so-called "Burger Wars," and racially offensive internet memes.

They say you must take the bitter with the sweet, but what about the toxic? We all have a few candy horror stories, but some people's sweet trauma goes beyond eating a popcorn butter-flavored Jelly Belly. Take Kinder Eggs, which have been banned in the US since the 1930s. The plastic toy hidden inside the candy has caused several children to choke (though everyone affected knowingly consumed the toys), and citizens who attempt to smuggle them into the States can be fined up to $2,500 per egg.

Hot dogs are about as American as apple pie. It's not uncommon for different states to offer their unique spins on classic American cuisine, and the hot dog industry is no exception. While some stands and shops take inspiration from other popular local cuisines for their toppings (like adding coleslaw or fish sticks to their classic franks and buns), others insist on layering, excluding, or adding ingredients to ensure their dogs remain a distinct staple to their regional style.

Weird History Food is getting cheesy, covering the history of Velveeta. Everyone's favorite party dip for tortilla chips has a longer history than one would expect. Coming from the dairy mind of Emil Frey, Velveeta has changed a lot over the years. How much? Well, take a dip into this video and find out. Chips are not required during the viewing of Velveeta, but a bib might be a good choice.

Weird History Food is taking frozen pizzas out of the freezer and into the storytelling oven to talk about everyone's favorite go to cheesy snack. Thanks to some innovations, frozen pizzas have become a staple in just about everyone's freezer. But how did this happen? Prebake your oven with your Tony's or Tombstone pizza and get ready to eat some hot-n-now pizza history.

Weird History Food is cooking up some BBQ for you. Food historians and culinary experts often disagree on where barbecuing traditions started. BBQ joints and backyard parties across the nation play host to their distinctive seasonings and cooking methods, producing an American staple deeply rooted in both immigration and native history. This list features some of the most famous (and not so famous) barbecuing styles across the US.

Weird History is going to get some wings at the Hooters restaurant. While many people may be turned off by the idea of a restaurant called Hooters, the history of Hooters is actually full of weird facts that may make even those most resistant willing to give it a chance. Founded on April Fool’s Day in 1983, the original “restaurant” has expanded into several different business ventures: the brand sells merchandise and a yearly calendar, boasts a Las Vegas casino hotel, and hosts a yearly swimsuit pageant.

Weird History Food is here for your lunch meat needs. The history of bologna or baloney has a storied history both in both Italy as well as America, which, thanks to German immigrants, gave the rise to American kids' favorite TV jingle -- My baloney has a first name it's O-S-C-A-R. We will spare you the rest, but get your white bread and mayo ready, because we are going on a bologna trip. And that's no baloney.

The top 10 candies weren’t surprising, but the breakdown of the favorites by state offered some interesting results. For instance, Ohio’s favorite Halloween candy is Blow Pops. In Montana, it’s Dubble Bubble Gum; Georgia’s fav is Swedish Fish and Lemonheads for Louisiana. But none of these four candies made the top 10 for the nation. Here are those list toppers in order of popularity, least first, with morsels of their sweet—and not-so-sweet —origins mixed in.

Weird History Food is dispelling the Halloween myths of tainted candy! We've all heard the stories of somebody lacing delicious Halloween candy with poison, or the classic razorblade in an apple story, but is any of that true? Like any part of it? Join us as we explore the history of Halloween candy myths.

Weird History Food is uncovering the unlikely origin of some of your favorite meals. Food is an essential part of culture. As communities, states, and nations form their identities, food becomes part of how they see themselves and shapes the perceptions of others. Dining at an Italian restaurant, for example, means pasta, pizza, and the like, while the names of some foods even attest to national origins.

Weird History Food is discussing the Big Mac. Everyone's favorite burger at McDonald's, the Big Mac is probably the most iconic-looking sandwich out there. We're going to take a look back at Mac's early origins, its surprising tie-in to Bob's Big Boy, and where the Big Mac stands today. Get ready for two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on a sesame seed bun.

Weird History Food is going global for your Fast Food needs. For better or worse, Americans tend to think of themselves as the biggest junk-food consumers in the world. While one glance down your average American main street makes it hard to argue against that idea, it turns out most of the world is just as dedicated to their mass-produced artery-cloggers as we are. And all of the big chains know it.

Weird History Food is gonna get your palate banned. Food is one of those things that immediately sets one country apart from another, and edible items or practices taken for granted in one country may in fact be banned somewhere else. For example, people eat many strange - and sometimes horrifying - foods in the US, some of which would raise eyebrows in almost any other nation.

Weird History Food is showing you the fruits and vegetables that seem natural but are actually man-made. Nowadays, many people like to know where their fruits and veggies came from - whether that's an organic farm across the country or an orchard a few miles away. But how many of us actually think about where our produce came from? As in, how it originated as food?

Weird History Food is going retro with your old favorite breakfast cereals. Walk down any breakfast cereal aisle in the United States, and you will find a plethora of options. There are often dozens of selections, each with variations on flavor and type. Sadly, some cereals that many enjoyed in childhood no longer exist. Whether it’s due to the public’s changing taste, a loss of license, or some other reason, some have simply vanished.

Avocado toast, goat cheese, alternative meat dishes - these are all that we'd consider 21st-century food trends. But did you know the bases of these dishes have been around a long time? In some cases, thousands of years? Our ancient human ancestors were no different from us in wanting tasty dishes, so they created some of the staple recipes that we take for granted today. From pancakes to pot pie to popcorn, different people in various pockets of the world were responsible for creating (or stumbling upon) some of our favorite foods today.

Weird History Food is peeling back the foil on this history of TV Dinners. With its aluminum or microwaveable plate, with separate compartments for meat, vegetable, and dessert, the TV dinner has a special place in food history and culture in the belly of American memories.

Weird History Food is going through the drive-thru for some Wendy's. Dave Thomas is best known for founding Wendy's hamburger restaurant chain in Columbus, Ohio. He became Wendy's TV spokesman in 1989. Dave opened his own restaurant on November 15, 1969: Wendy's, named after Thomas' 8-year-old daughter. Wendy's quickly caught on, and within less than a decade, had grown into a 1,000-store franchise.

Weird History Food is gonna pull over and get a bite at the Waffle House. In 1955, two neighbors in Georgia opened up a restaurant. Since opening, The Waffle House has created its own culture, with its own unique language and customs, and has been the popular destination after the bars close and for anyone on a road trip.

Weird History Food is opening up a delicious video on Chocolate. In one form or another, chocolate has been with mankind for centuries. The delectable snack has an unusual European history. First viewed with suspicion, chocolate became medicine and finally turned thousands into chocoholics.

This Weird History Food video is gonna stick to the roof of your mouth. We're talking Peanut Butter. The peanut butter industry has been thriving for decades. With a wide variety of brands, tastes, and textures, it is one of the most versatile foods on the market. Due to a large assortment of culinary applications, peanut butter can be found almost anywhere. Some people would rather stick to the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, while others use the ingredient in everything they can, including ice creams, cookies, salads, soups, burgers, and even drinks.

Weird History Food is going to radiate you with the history of the Microwave Oven.The microwave was invented accidentally by an engineer named Percy Spencer, who was leading a defense radar project. His invention would change the way Americans would eat forever. Peel off the plastic lid and set it on high for 14 minutes, and let's get micro-wavin'

Weird History Food is going to get you sauced on some absinthe. It’s the stuff of writers, poets, artists, and madmen . . . all of whom are, arguably, the same thing. There are few drinks that have the mystery, allure, and controversy of absinthe. Simultaneously touted as the hallmark of high society, and the downfall of the same, absinthe has had an unparalleled reputation.

Weird History Food is taking you out for a Whopper. Burger King's highest-ranking burger, the Whopper, has a surprising history, making that delicious flame-broiled burger taste even better. Take a trip through Weird History Food's drive-thru for a delicious history on The Whopper.

Weird History Food is going to give you a spoonful of sugar with these sugar facts. We all know that sugar is delicious, but not the healthiest thing to eat. We’re starting to understand its role in weight gain and other health complications. But why has it taken so long? And why haven’t we found better, safer alternatives yet? Here are some reasons the sugar industry works so hard to keep you in the dark, and one thing you can do to counteract their power.

Weird History Food is pouring you a frosty video on beer. As summed up by Homer Simpson, the most important philosopher of the 20th century: Beer is the cause of and solution to all of life’s problems. The amber liquid deserves a fair share of the credit for a lot of major changes and advances throughout humanity’s history.

Weird History Food is going to get sloppy with this one talking about the history of the Sloppy Joe. Whether it came from Sioux City, Iowa, Key West, Florida or Havana, Cuba, the Sloppy Joe has left a deliciously large greasy imprint on the hearts of America. This loose-meat sandwich has been associated with school lunches, manly meals, and cheap, but delicious comfort food since the 1930s.

Weird History Food is getting snacky with this history of Little Debbie. One of the most iconic logos in food, did you know that Little Debbie is an actual person? Founded in 1960, the McKee Baking Company changed one little girl's life forever when her face became the face of tasty snack cakes. Come find out just who Little Debbie really is...

Weird History Food is heading for the border for the history of Taco Bell. Everyone's favorite late-night drive-thru destination, Taco Bell had some humble beginnings starting in Southern California. Get your order ready because we are getting some Taco Bell to go. We would like 6 soft taco supremes, please.

When it comes to food, what is a staple in one country may be considered bizarre in another. One country’s classic is another country’s exotic novelty treat. One’s hot trend is another’s time-honored tradition. For example, American classics like peanut butter and root beer are considered odd and even disgusting outside the US. On the other hand, ice cream is one food that seems to enjoy worldwide popularity. Yet, so endless are its variations, that there is always some new ingredient or flavor to discover.

Weird History Food will hit the "57" on the side of this video to give you the History of Ketchup. You might be surprised to learn ketchup's true origins and the fact that the first ketchup had no tomatoes in it at all. Let's pour this video out in a nice, thick, ketchup-y way. Catchup on Ketchup history...

Weird History Food is getting banned. Americans love their food, and they are able to buy (almost) anything imaginable at restaurants, farms, markets, and other stores, but some foods are currently banned. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned many foods from being sold or eaten in the United States due to their not being safe for consumption. Here is a list of the top ten foods that are surprisingly banned in the US.

Weird History Food is taking you to White Castle to learn all about the history of the Slyder. Yes, we spelled that right. White Castle was the first fast-food franchise, so we will indeed buy 'em by the sack. From its humble beginnings in Kansas, to finding those delicious burgers at the grocery store, we're covering the whole square patty.

Weird History Food wants to serve you some delicious Dessert Origins. Desserts around the world have come a long way since they were first made. Dainty versions of well-known desserts stand out in the windows of patisseries, and multiple flavor variations are experimented with to replace the standard chocolate and vanilla.

Weird History Food is going to clog your heart with the history of Kentucky Fried Chicken's Double Down sandwich. KFC's viral offering flipped the sandwich and instead of offering bread, used two breaded chicken patties. This over-the-top menu item created reactions from both fans of KFC as well as critics. Check your cholesterol levels for this one, because we're going to get decadent with the Double Down.

Weird History Food is going out for some KFC facts. Who hasn't fallen in love with the unique and mouthwatering flavor of KFC’s deep-fried chicken? At the very least, you might recognize the colonel and his famous red bucket of chicken. Let's enjoy this delicious bucket o' video about Kentucky Fried Chicken.

Weird History Food is serving you some breakfast. When you think of American breakfast food, what comes to mind? For many, it's likely things like cereal and milk, toast, eggs, and coffee. On weekends, there might be more elaborate dishes like French toast or pancakes accompanied by a tall glass of orange juice. When we step foot in a diner, we know what the menu will look like - to the point we might even tell the host we don't need to see one. But what is less known is how American breakfast food came to be.

It’s no secret that McDonald’s food is unhealthy and the company is prone to scandals. But it might surprise you just how unhealthy it really is and how many scandals there truly are. The company—the single largest restaurant corporation in the world, and one of the largest in general—has a long history of mistreating its managers, employees, customers, and even the food itself. As a result, they’ve stacked up a lot of skeletons in their many closets around the globe.

Weird History Food is giving you some food secrets. Every state has a food it is known for, and we often take pride in claiming that our home makes some of the best barbecue, seafood, or pies in the nation. Still, when Ranker asked readers which food they could eat for the rest of their lives, Chinese food, spaghetti, burritos, and sushi were some of the dishes that ranked at the very top of the list. Part of what makes these foods so appealing is that they seem special, helping us feel like we are experiencing ethnic foods without having to leave home.

Weird History Food is delivering some Pizza Innovations to your eyes. Immigrants to the United States brought their staple food with them, and pizza became a sensation in their new country, with the first pizzeria in the US opening for business in Manhattan in 1905. Pizza is now a favorite across the planet, though how it’s made varies greatly from place to place. As these ten tantalizing facts show, the dish is subject to innovation, research, study, and artistic interpretation.

Weird History Food is talking about the history of Cracker Barrel. We're pulling off on the next exit because we saw a billboard for the Cracker Barrel. Originally built as a filling station, we're going to show you how Cracker Barrel built its empire and explore why you see so many Cracker Barrels off the interstate. Let's not forget to visit Cracker Barrel's antique store as well.

Weird History Food is serving you a big cheesy bowl of the history of Mac and Cheese. Macaroni and cheese goes back in history well beyond the Kraft Mac & Cheese that every kid in America grew up eating. From the 14th Century on, we'll follow the cheesy history of macaroni and cheese, all the way up to the current Easy Mac microwaveable dish. Now the real question is: Kraft Mac 'n Cheese, or, Velveeta shells and cheese?

Weird History Food is opening up a bag of the history of Oreos. Oreo cookies are one of the most recognizable cookies in the world. We're going to show you the entire history of Oreo, not to mention its rival Hydrox, and explore every flavor combination that Oreos have to offer. Get yourself a glass of milk, because there are a lot of Oreos here to eat.

Weird History Food is giving you a big piece of the History of Meatloaf. The meatloaf dish has been a staple on American dinner tables since the 1940s. But where did it start? Was it even in America? We're going to show the long history of meatloaf and where this delicious dish stands today. Grab your eating bib, you're gonna need it with this tangy video on this comfort food.

Weird History Food is taking you out for a delicious cocktail history date. It’s hard to think of a more popular bar drink on a night out than a cocktail. Some mixed drinks are so well-known, they’ve essentially become household names with their own interesting origin stories.

Weird History Food is gonna turn this up to 11 with the History of Energy Drinks. Energy drinks, namely Red Bull, Monster, and the always pleasant Four Loko are pretty well-known and popular brands, but they weren't the first energy drink. No, that actually happened way back in the 1960s in Japan. Try not to get the jitters as we cover all you need to know about the heart-pumping energy drink. This video may or may not give you wiiinnngggssss.

Weird History Food is going worldwide. From greasy fried chicken and pizzas covered in cheese, to super sweet and sugary treats, Americans love their fast food. There's a McDonald's on the corner streets of even the smallest towns in the US, and few people have to drive more than a mile or two to reach their local Starbucks or Dunkin' Donuts. Because fast food chains are so prevalent across America, it can be difficult to imagine a place where well-recognized logos don't light up the night skies, promising tasty food and quick service at fair prices. However, these chains don't always go over as well in other countries as they do here in the United States.

Weird History Food is going to your favorite fast food drive-thru for the history of the Dollar Menu. The big three fast food chains, Mcdonald's, Wendy's, and Burger King have all introduced their version of the value menu. But when did it start? And more importantly, where did it go? Well, grab yourself a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger and see the untold story of the Dollar Menu.

Weird History Food is getting into the packaging of your favorite foods. Sometimes, logical reasons exist for what seem to be frustrating package designs. Who knew that air in chip bags served a purpose? On the other hand, you might be disappointed to find out that some of the biggest grievances in the snacking product design world come down to a company being stuck in its ways - and not really wanting to innovate.

Weird History is taking you back to the '90s for a big ol' can of Surge. Have you ever been browsing the insufficiently extreme soda aisle at your local grocery store and found yourself wondering, "What ever happened to Surge, one of the most extreme caffeinated soft drinks of the 1990s?" Well, you're not alone. Surge was a popular but extremely short-lived carbonated phenomenon that embodied '90s-ness.

Weird History Food is gonna give you fries with that. Crinkly cut or shaped into tots; eaten as a complete meal or as a side dish at a popular fast food chain - the world seems to have been fascinated with the many ways to enjoy a French fried potato since they were first introduced centuries ago. From its legendarily humble beginnings to its debut at White House dinners, and eventual adoption as a street food favorite, this list features everything we learned about how people eat french fries.

Weird History Food is sending you a SPAM alert. No, not those annoying emails you get from Planet Fitness, but the delicious ham in a can. SPAM has a longer history than you would expect, but probably a little longer than a can of SPAM's typical shelf-life. Peel this video can back and get some mustard, we're going ham on you.

Weird History Food is serving you a big ol' bowl of pasta facts. For centuries, the production of pasta has been an art form in Italy. Pasta's story is also one of trade, culture, and migration on a global scale. Like the many different pizza styles littered across America, pasta comes in all shapes and sizes, ranging from slender spaghetti to squat rigatoni noodles. Pasta shapes are not just decorative; many chefs claim that the shape and texture of the pasta will impact the overall dining experience.

Weird History Food is serving you every hot style of French Fry cut out there that we could find. When you think about it, you might know Shoestring, Steak, or even Curly, but we will show you the 18 cuts you can do with a French Fry. Get your favorite bottle of ketchup, maybe some Malt Vinegar, and some salt, some fry styles are comin' in pipin' hot.

Weird History Food is showing you some really weird drinks and beverages from around the globe. From rainbow-colored beer to “Viagra” made from frogs, there’s an unusual beverage to delight—or disgust—just about every taste. If you dare, crack open this video and get ready to guzzle some really strange brew.

Weird History Food would like to know if you want some Ranch with that. The flavor of ranch seems as though it's been around forever. But, it had to come from somewhere. That somewhere was a self-described cowboy from Nebraska who came west in the hope of making his fortune. Steve Henson invented what is known today as ranch dressing when he was looking for a way to keep a bunch of hungry construction workers happy.

Weird History Food is going heavyweight on the history of the George Foreman Grill. To many, George Foreman is the 2-time Heavyweight Champion of the World. But to those with an appetite, Foreman was known more for his eponymous grill. We're going to look at the history of Foreman and his famous grill.

Weird History is taking you back to the 90s for your favorite foods. When it comes to the 1990s, everyone enjoyed many bodacious goodies we wouldn't have wanted to be without. Those staple foods we associate with the decade include snacks, meals, desserts, and even beverages. We ate them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner - or maybe all of the above. They were yummy, and they bring back memories with every bite.

Weird History Food has got a Hot-n-Ready pizza video on Little Caesar's waiting for you. The company was started in the late 60s by Mike Illitch who took Little Ceasar's from a small mom-and-pop pizza parlor to a global phenomenon. Grab a slice and watch the rise of Little Caesar's pizza pizza through the years.

Weird History Food is going to shock you with some news about the age of your favorite food brands. Some of the most common foods you see on grocery store shelves have been around for decades - if not centuries. These items have been staples in the diets of people around the world for much longer than you realize, perhaps gracing the palates of international celebrities, political leaders, or your own ancestors from days gone by.

Weird History Food will flip a shrimp tail in your pocket as we discover the History of Benihana. The Benihana restaurant chain was founded by Hiroaki "Rocky" Aoki, part entrepreneur, and part daredevil. We'll follow this iconic hibachi chain's meteoric rise, and Behihana's path to the present day. Can you hear the clang of a spatula on the Hibachi grill? Mmm mmm

Weird History Food is taking you around the world to see some International Food Laws. If you want to get to know another country, check out its food laws, which determine everything from what products are available on store shelves to how and where people can enjoy a meal. Some countries have very strict regulations about the food people can consume, taking into consideration everything from nutrition to the safety of the ingredients. As a result, these nations may limit the availability of certain products to promote healthy consumption or cultural eating habits. What is considered safe in the US may not be considered that way elsewhere.

Weird History Food is going to fire up the grill with the history of bbq grills. Almost every American loves that time of the year when they open up the trusty outdoor grill, throw some charcoal in, and make some delicious bbq. But when did this practice begin? Well, get some brats, burgers, and bbq chicken, because we're going to dive into the history and evolution of the backyard barbeque.

Weird History Food is taking you around the World in 15 minutes to see World Food Festivals. Whether spoken or implied, people often have a set of food rules they live by. We learn from a young age to not throw our food, share our meals with animals, or play with the veggies, fruits, and proteins on our plates. However, these same rules that seem pretty standard when it comes to dinnertime etiquette sometimes get completely thrown into the metaphorical food waste bin when it comes to festivals.

Weird History Food is going to McDonald's for some of its delicious Coca-Cola. If you've ever debated someone over whether or not the Coca-Cola served at McDonald's tastes different than the Coke did at other places, you're not crazy. McDonald's Coke has a unique flavor, and some say it's better than canned Coke or Coke from other restaurants.

Weird History Food is taking a look at the animals we use for our food. Around 11,000 years ago when humans first began trading nomadic lifestyles for permanent communities, they also began to domesticate animals. Species like sheep, cattle, and goats were among the first to be tamed based on their usefulness to human survival. This was only the beginning of the millennia of selective breeding, changing what were once wild animals into the domestic creatures commonly recognized today.

Weird History Food is serving you up some delicious nostalgia with the history of Hamburger Helper. If you remember this creepy little mascot finger-tipping across your TV set, you'll remember Hamburger Helper was a way cash-strapped American families looked for ways to stretch their meals further than ever before. Let's take a look back at this classic boxed food product.

Weird History Food is going to sit down and have a plate of Sausage Facts with you. The humble sausage, or “banger” as the British have fondly named it, is eaten and enjoyed by millions worldwide. Sometimes people do more with sausages than just eat them, though—to the point where it becomes bizarre and entertaining.

Weird History Food is taking you through the decades to examine some popular foods and dishes. From one decade to the next, the country experienced rapidly changing food trends, from the tasty to the healthy to the bizarre. The well-off usually decided what was fashionable - on plates and otherwise - for better or worse. The times we live in influence how we perceive beauty, and they affect the foods we love, too. It's impossible to predict a culinary trend, but once it hits, the whole country just has to try it.

Weird History is going to cool off with some history about Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream. Founded in Burlington, Vermont, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield were childhood friends who decided to make an ice cream business happen. And man did it ever. Ben & Jerry's has become one of the most recognizable and fan-favorite ice creams across America. Sit back with a pint of Half Baked and enjoy this delicious video.

Weird History Food is going to get messy with this saucy history of the Buffalo Wing. Nobody needs to dispute that Buffalo Wings started in Buffalo, New York, but really who was the first person to create the Buffalo Wing? Get some extra napkins and maybe a wet wipe, but this spicy video has all you need to know about hot wings and more.

Weird History Food is taking you back to the 1990s to see all the sweet, themed restaurants of the decade. The '90s were the era of tight-rolled jeans, grunge rock, and Beanie Babies, but the decade was also home to the themed restaurant craze. Many were short-lived enterprises, despite the presence of celebrity entrepreneurs. But a few still carry on today, even if they feel like something of a throwback to a different time.

Weird History Food will tell you who exactly built the Food Pyramid. While the Egyptian Pyramids have created vast conspiracies about who made them, the American Food Pyramid is pretty obvious - Big Food Business. Get your veggies, fruits, bread, meat, and butter (yes, butter) sit back and enjoy this video on the History of the Food Pyramid.

Weird History Food is gonna make you nostalgic for some discontinued foods that we'd all want back. The food and beverage industry is a tricky one. For something that's so essential to human life - eating and drinking - it's still difficult to create and market a successful product. That's to be expected. Eating and drinking are highly personal acts, and creating a product that appeals to millions of people takes exhaustive work. Occasionally, some companies beat the odds and introduce an edible or potable that connects with the public. It's more likely, however, that such products will fail, even with the expertise and marketing budget of a multinational corporation.

Weird History Food is going to make you giddy with the History of the Happy Meal. McDonald's Happy Meal started, in 1974, in of all places, Guatemala, which was its first McDonald’s franchise by Yolanda Fernández de Cofiño. You'll get a good prize when you watch this video on every kid's favorite meal, the Happy Meal.

Weird History Food is getting out the fryer for this one on Fried Foods. People worldwide have enjoyed various fried foods for centuries. Deep-frying is thought to date back to ancient Egyptian times; the process was meant to help preserve foods. The invention of the frying pan has been credited to ancient Mesopotamians.

Weird History Food is gonna get a bowl and some milk for this look back at the History of 80s Sugary Cereals. Thanks to some deregulation in the early 80s, kids saw a flood of delicious sugary cereals, often with movie or toy tie-ins, make their way onto the shelves of grocery stores across the United States. This Cereal History video is not going to get soggy. Dig in!

Weird History Food is going to the kitchen to get into the History of kitchen gadgets. Americans are all about making life easier through innovative ideas and inventions, and the kitchen is one of our favorite places to collect items equipped with cutting-edge technology to make our time cooking meals more enjoyable and efficient. Whether we love to prepare food or consider it a chore, something as simple as having the latest and greatest gadgets in our culinary toolboxes can completely transform our experiences.

Weird History Food is getting some shot glasses ready for The History of Jägermeister. Originally from the German town, Wolfenbüttel, Jagermeister has seen a lot of variations in its history. Jager started as a vinegar, but since then has become every college student's go-to shot of choice. Get some Red Bull handy, if that's your thing, and drop into this video on Jagermeister. Cheers

Weird History Food is gonna pour you a fresh fact video about the History of Beer. Beer is more than just a beverage. The history of beer dates back thousands of years, and it has helped shape the course of civilization. At times, beer has even saved lives. There are so many amazing facts about beer that you probably don't know - and they'll definitely give you a deeper appreciation for this magical elixir.

Weird History Food is going to give you a frosty treat this summer with History of Carvel Ice Cream. Founded by a Greek Immigrant, Tom Carvel, he is considered to be the creator of soft-serve ice cream. If you grew up on the East Coast, you know who Fudgie the Whale, Cookie Puss, and a host of other ice cream cake characters are. Get to this video before it melts, and explore the history of Carvel's.

Weird History Food is going to get into the real foodies who have shaped how and what we eat. Though we eat out of necessity, the evolution of the way food is prepared and served has also made it an incredibly enjoyable experience that we look forward to every few hours. And while we often sit down to enjoy a home-cooked dinner inspired by our favorite TV chefs, run through the drive-thru to get a hearty meal from our favorite fast-food joint, or get dressed to celebrate an occasion at our favorite restaurant, we rarely stop to consider exactly how the foods we love ended up on our plates.

Weird History is ordering a Double Double telling you the History of In-n-Out Burger. The famous burger chain was founded by Harry and Esther Snyder. Harry first visited a local market to buy fresh ingredients for his 10-square-foot-wide hamburger stand. From there, In-n-Out has exploded in the West and Southwest with a rabid, almost cult-like following. You're gonna want this video Animal-Style, so sit back, relax, and enjoy.

Weird History Food is gonna burn your tongue with some Facts About Spicy Foods. Whether sitting down to enjoy an authentically made dish, or grabbing a quick snack, those who love the thrill of a tingly palate accompanied by a runny nose tend to include spicy foods as part of their daily intake. Over the years, foodies have begun to expect the flavors of jalapeños in their favorite Tex-Mex dishes, a piquant “traditional” curry at their favorite Indian restaurants, and to be asked if they can handle the heat incorporated into Thai food.

Weird History Food is going to crack open a can and tell you the History of Dr. Pepper. While maybe not quite as popular as Coca-Cola or Pepsi, Dr. Pepper has been around just as long as its bigger rivals. But how did Dr. Pepper start? And when did America want to start wanting to become a Pepper too? Well, served hot or cold, this video has got the crisp and refreshing Dr. P news you need.

Weird History Food is going to pour you a video on What Coffee Does To Your Body. Coffee gets a bad rap. Maybe because it tastes so good. Things that taste good are almost always bad for us. There are some less-than-awesome things that can be rightfully blamed on our favorite morning brew, like insomnia, jitters, and heartburn. But people tend to overlook the truly incredible things that coffee does for us.

Weird History Food is giving you a warm bowl of nostalgia with the History of Campbell's Soup. Probably one of the most recognizable food designs, the Campbell's Soup can is both part of modern pop culture and in just about every American pantry. But where did the company get its start? And how has Campbell's stayed a relevant brand for over 150 years? Get some crackers and pepper ready, we're going soup to nuts on Campbell's.

Weird History Food is giving you the secrets to the Coca-Cola formula. Since its invention by John Pemberton in 1886, Coca-Cola has become the most well-known soft drink in the world. Yet who actually knows the Coca-Cola recipe? On its website, Coca-Cola claims the company's "secret formula for making Coca-Cola has remained a trade secret for 130 years." Shrouding the drink's ingredients in secrecy "creates a natural curiosity about the product itself," according to social psychologist and marketing expert Ben Voyer.

Weird History Food is giving you a pick-me-up with the History of Starbucks Coffee. Founders Jerry Baldwin, Gordon Bowker, and Zev Siegl sought to open up a coffee store. They knew they wanted it to reflect both the culture of the Northwest and the seafaring coffee traders who first brought coffee to the United States. What they didn't expect was how big Starbucks would become. Bring some creamer to this video.

Weird History Food is getting you Fall-ready with the History of Pumpkin Spice. Now, seemingly everywhere, Pumpkin Spice has a surprisingly long history. Pumpkin spice—also known as pumpkin pie spice—is typically made from a combination of Southeast Asian spices: ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and sometimes ginger. But how did Pumpkin Spice become an option in about every food or drink during the fall season? Get your latte or SPAM ready and find out.

Weird History Food is taking you back to the 90s for McDonald's Hot Coffee Lawsuit.| Over the years, the McDonald's hot coffee lawsuit has become heavily associated with the supposed epidemic of frivolous lawsuits in the United States. Most people see the case as the story of a woman who clumsily spilled coffee on her own lap and sued McDonald's in retaliation. However, that is largely untrue and only a fraction of the story.

Weird History Food is getting snacky with the History of Hostess. Maker of some of our favorite cakes and snacks, including Twinkies, Ding Dongs, Cup Cakes, and Ho Ho's, Hostess has been the mainstay of America's cupboards for decades. But where did Hostess begin? Well, get ready for a sugar high, we're going unwrap Hostess' long, sweet, and sometimes bitter, history.

Weird History is going back to the 90s for some Snacks!| Many '90s snacks did not survive long after their titular decade and were ultimately discontinued in later years. That's left millennials nostalgic for a time when they could trade their favorite snacks over the cafeteria table. These facts about '90s lunch box foods may whet your appetite - or make you question why you loved them so much in the first place

Weird History Food is giving into temptation by giving you the History Girl Scout Cookies.| While you may see these delicious Girl Scout Cookies being sold around town or your co-worker is sending around the order sheet at the office, when did this usually between January and April tradition begin? And who started it? Well, crack open a box of Samoas or Do-Si-Dos, sit back and enjoy this Explainer video.

What's your favorite beverage?| Something carbonated? What about a nice warm treat? Or maybe you're content with a fruity drink? Even if you don't have a favorite beverage, you've probably had coffee, tea, beer, or any variety of popular liquid refreshments to quench your thirst. But how much do you really know about that drink?

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Weird History Food is crackin' open a 40-ouncer and pouring out some Malt Liquor History. Some of us might have flashbacks to college and drink either Olde English, St. Ides, or some smooth Colt 45. But is malt liquor actually beer? Do people still drink malt liquor? Some of our favorite musicians from the 90s were definitely singing the praises of this tasty beverage. Oh, the 90s, it's so hard to say goodbye to yesterday.

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Weird History Food is getting the family together and going down to get the History of Olive Garden. Originally called "The" Olive Garden, everyone's favorite destination for unlimited breadsticks and salads was actually a creation of corporate behemoth General Mills. So how has Olive Garden stayed so popular and relevant for decades? Let's carb-load this video on the OG.

Weird History Food is going to pick up the check on this one with some Chain Restaurant Facts. There's a certain level of comfort when diners walk into a popular American food chain. No matter where patrons travel throughout the US, they know that entering a chain restaurant titan will provide them with the same menu, food, and service they experience back home. Establishments like Olive Garden, Waffle House, Applebee's, T.G.I. Friday's, Outback Steakhouse, and others take pride in providing diners with consistent atmospheres no matter where life takes them.

Weird History Food is popping up a good one with the History of Orville Redenbacher. Orville wasn't always the iconic bespectacled popcorn-shucking spokesperson, he dedicated his life to finding the perfect corn to pop into perfection. Born in Indiana, Orville was always into popping corn and eventually became a global corporate icon. Get some butter and salt for this video and enjoy.

Weird History Food is going to get you into the Strangest Food Marketing Campaigns. Commercials and ads are no longer enough in a world habituated to shift its attention in the first three seconds of watching videos. Many companies have ditched standard marketing campaigns for the unconventional, relying on surprise experiences to create buzz, drive publicity, and increase revenue.

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Weird History Food is goin' for some Dunkin' Donuts History. Whether you’re into coffee, donuts, munchkins, or any one of the bazillion breakfast sandwiches they sling every morning, Dunkin Donuts has something for everyone. Get some coffee for this, we're going into where Dunkin' was started and how Dunkin' Donuts has been doing.

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Engin lýsing komin enn.

Weird History Food is grabbing an extra plate to show you the History of Buffets. The term "Buffet" may bring back memories of going to your local restaurant and gorging yourself while creating cooky culinary concoctions. But where did the buffet start? Was it even in America? Well, good thing you've come here because we'll uncover the history as well as how buffets even stay in business. Bring your appetite for this smorgasbord of a video.

Weird History Food is getting into the Genetic Reasons Why You Like Certain Foods. Here's some good news for picky eaters: genetic dispositions cause you to enjoy the taste of certain foods but not others. If some cultural food choices seem baffling to you, that's normal. Why do people eat what they eat? Why does something you eat taste completely different to someone else of a different race or ethnicity? Of course, taste can also be influenced by things that happen during your upbringing or by disease risk factors coded into DNA. Mainly, though, it's a mixture of many of these.

Weird History Food is making a grocery list to show you the History of Trader Joe's. Founded in California, the Trader Joe's grocery store has grown in popularity, to almost cult-like status, over the past few decades. But what makes Trader Joe's so unique? Well, we hope you like sea-themed grocery shopping because we are tracing TJ's from its inception to how they got "Two-Buck Chuck" to become the iconic must-bring bottle of wine to any party. Ahoy!

Weird History Food is opening up a can of History on Crystal Pepsi. What’s better than regular Coke? Clear Coke, of course! Or, at least that’s what a majority of the top soda brands in the US thought back in the early '90s. Leading the "Clear Cola Craze" was PepsiCo., which released the first of many clear cola beverages, with their aspirational hit Crystal Pepsi. Anyone who grew up in the 1990s is likely to recall the suspiciously pure-looking soda, and its just-as-curious departure from stock shelves nationwide. So, what really happened to Crystal Pepsi, and the clear-cola movement that succeeded it?

Weird History Food is getting some hot and tasty history of the Easy Bake Oven. One of the most iconic toys in our history, the Easy Bake Oven has helped teach young children cooking and baking techniques. While the Easy Bake has had its share of highs and lows, nobody can deny its place in our cultural zeitgeist. Let's all have a nice treat with this video on the Easy Bake Oven.

Weird History is heading back to the 80's for some long lost snacks! Names like Famous Amos and his crazy good cookies, Jell-O Pudding Pops, and Smurf Berry Crunch were kid favorites during the era. So grab a snack to munch on as you take a trip down food memory lane!

Weird History Food is tapping some boxed wine history! For over 50 years, boxed wine has seemingly waterfalled endless fountains of booze into the mouths of college kids and concertgoers alike. Some of us may have hazy memories of drinking from the wine bladder, or grabbing a box on the way to a party. Franzia Boxed wine was at the heart of it all, and yet, over the years, many labels jumped into the boxed wine game.... growing he reputation from its party animal past, into a respectable commodiyy. Grab yourself a glass of boxed wine and visually imbibe our latest offering!

Today, Weird History Food is having a look at some of your most favorite dishes! ..But, when first created, how did they ACTUALLY taste? Our palettes have experienced ever evolving flavors through the centuries, and these foods are no exception. So grab your favorite bite to eat, and let Weird History guide you back in time to how it tasted when it was first created!

"Mountain Dew" used to refer to illegally distilled liquor, or moonshine. Today, though, the phrase is associated with a line of sweet, caffeinated beverages made and distributed by PepsiCo – and very much legally. The name comes from the inventors, a pair of Tennessee bottlers who were searching for the perfect mixer. In the years since they first concocted Mountain Dew, their citrus-flavored soft drink has become one of the most popular sodas in the world.

Hey Weird History Food lovers, think you know your favorite foods? Take a trip back with us in time, to the circumstances and situations which created the impetus for some of the most tasty dishes we devour today! From native America Fry bread, to the tastiest of crispy Fried Chicken, this Weird History Food Episode is sure to be an eye opener!

This episode of Weird History Food Is taking you back - WAY back to the beginnings of the every elusive McRib. Here today, gone tomorrow, with only the fading memories of hat sweet sweet taste etched into the brain. Maybe you were the biggest fan? Maybe not, but, we all have memories of seeing the ads, and many hoping for the return... Will they, Won't they? Can McD's bring back such fun on a bun? The insane rib rack with no bones?? Tune in and get some backstory on one of the Golden Arches' most storied and elusive creations!

Take a trip with Weird History Food, to the very germ of an idea that was breakfast sandwhiches. Though we have all lost count of exactly how many delectable Egg McMuffins we have all consumed, is hard to imagine a world in which Egg McMuffins just did not exist. How did they even come about? What brilliance created this morning mainstay? Grab yourself a McMuffin or two, and scarf down this video treat - its available ALL Day, every Day!

Here at Weird History Food we are taking you on a stroll down memory lane - way back to another era, remembering those favorite snacks from the 90s! ...Push Pops, Sprinkle Spangles, or Butterfinger BB's? What were some of your childhood cravings that have seemed to gone the way of the Dodo? Grab your current favorite snack, and take a stroll with us into the last century, to the time they called 'the ninties' and see what the kid's of the era craved!

We all know he feeling of craving our favorite mal, and not wanting to get off the couch. Maybe its raining outside? A blizzard? A full blown pandemic that kept everyone in their homes? Whatever the reason, the market of ordering by app, and 'food delivery' in general, has had a storied past! Place an order on your favorite app, and as you wait for the food to arrive, have a look at the history which made that all possible!

You know them, you love them - the ever tasty Bagel Bites that exploded in popularity as the 80's became the 90s, and beyond! Sure, they have scorched a few mouths in their time, and yet it seems kids and adults alike just can't get enough of them! heat up some Bagel Bites and enjoy a taste of how they came to be - from their humble beginnings up to the behemoth snack we all know and love! As the infectious jingle implies - you can have pizza any time!

Today we are taking a hazy trip through memory lane to our first time trying the good ol' 'hangover in a can'. 4Loko - a name that evokes all kinda of wild memories in hose who have partaken in its various forms. But how did this freaky concoction come to be? Who even dreamed this stuff up? And how has it managed to survive on shelves all this time? Go get yourself a can of your favorite flavor, f you dare - have a sit n' sip and let us take you back in time to how this crazy premium malt beverage came to be. Cheers!

We've all been there - strolling into a 7-11 on a blazing hot Summer day, getting a large Slurpee and getting the biggest brain freeze ever! Great times, but, how did his place, eventually known as 7-11, come to be? Go get yourself a Big Gulp, or your favorite flavored Slurpee and join us as we walk through the past of what we now know as 7-11!

Today we are examining the clear, unfreezable liquor we all know as vodka! maybe you have memories of substituting vodka in a water bottle to imbibe at a festival, or, perhaps the memory of vodka still makes you break out in a cold sweat of hangovers past... come join us, with or without your favorite vodka cocktail, as we delve deep into the past of all things vodka!

Many would argue that there is nothing better than a chicken nugget. They're hot. They're crispy. They're undeniably delicious! But what exactly is the origin of this fried chicken goodness? And what mystery meat actually resides inside of them? Let's find out!

Today on Weird History we will delve deep into the past of everyone's beloved late night dining spot, Denny's. After a concert, having the munchies after a party, or whatever the reason, Denny's has always been a great all night option. Join us as we walk through to Denny's humble beginnings as a donut shop, and trace how it became the place we all know and love!

Ahh... the diet drink phase... Tab, Diet Rite, even Coca Cola got into the craze! Come join us as we trace the origins of diet soda, and how Diet Coke emerged and took over the minds of so many over the years! With so many flavors and options, what's yours?

We've all drank, and we've all had our own personal booze filled disasters, but, did you know that in history, two major 'booze disasters' eclipse them all? Take a mental stroll with us through history, and examine with us the great beer flood that happened in London, and the time the most unthinkable happened: That crazy fateful day that Russia ran out of Vodka!

Picture the scene - its a blazing hot summer day, or, maybe even just late lat night and you are restless..you drive out to a local McDonald's drive through only to be told once again, 'sorry, the machine is down'. In fact that situation didn't happen just to you - i happens many times, to many people all over the country! What does it happen so frequently? What is this Ice Cream machine curse that seems t have such a hold on McDona'd's nationwide? Come join us as we get down o what exactly plagues he golden arches to this day!

All throughout the 80s and 90s, one thing was clear - there was a battle on, and that battle raged between 7Up and Sprite. Join us as we walk through the past, seeing how these two titans came to be, and recounting the various marketing battles that were had! Which is your favorite? 7Up, or, Sprite?

Today on Weird History Food, we are looking at the phenomenon known as Crumble - maybe you've liked someon's post of a Crumbl cookie on Scuial Media? Maybe uoi were lucky enough to live near one of their brick and Mortar stores from the very beginning!COme with us as we look into how two college aged cousins had an idea that literally went viral, creating the sensation we all know today!

Today on Weird History Food we are examining how one of the world's BEST breath Fresheners got it start. Bad Breath has plagued everyone since the dawn of time, and various cultures had their own ways of dealing with it.... Until one day, and Italian company created the small powerhouse breath freshener we all know today!

In the battle of heavy hitters Gatorade and Powerade, the winner (by numbers) is clear. Today at Weird History Food, we are looking back at the genesis of he behemoth known as Gatorade, and how it forged a path for its more modern competitor, Powerade. How did Gatorade come to be, and what of the battle of thirst quenchers? Join us as we get down into the dirty history of how all has played out!

Today on Weird History Food We Are Delving Deep into the coolest lunch kit ever - Lunchables! They were ubiquitous during lunchtime gin the 90s, all the way to today, boasting a huge variety of combinations. Perhaps you remember having one at lunchtime in the 90s, or even more recently, and take a trip with us to found out how this phenomenon came to be!

Today On Weird History we re diving deep into that most incredible food invention, the burrito - travel around with us as we go into the history and origins of some of the most favorite types of burritos we have all chowed down on at one point or another. Whether late night after the bar, 1st thing in the AM or at high noon - burritos are great at ay time day or night! ....Which is YOUR favorite, and where can WE find it?

Ahh... malls... Depicted in 80s films, they were a huge pasttime for MANY people, young and old, since the 1960s.... One major draw was the incredible addition of food courts - Who even Dreamed up this concept? Maybe you have many memories of a bygone era spending weekends hanging with friends at the mall, or, maybe your only impression is watching explorers on youtube traverse mall carcasses.Whatever your experience, join us today as we examine how these all came to be, and what exactly happened to them!

Sunny Delight - that ndiscribable orange bottle of sunshine that we all remember was chosen over 'some purple stuff' in a fridge. The 90s were Sunny Delights era to shine for sure, but, it was create many moons before. Come take a trip to a time when this concoction was fisrst developed, and ride the wave with us on the pah to the modern Sunny D, which now comes in many colors, and even with alcohol!

Today We at Weird History Food dive deep ino to the beginnings of Dairy Queen - home of the one and only Blizzard! Maybe you have one near you? Maybe you live in a 'Dairy Queen Desert' only to dream you had one nearby. Whatever the case, come with us as we explore how a certain concoction took hold in Southern California and never let go!

Oh, the ups and downs of being Jack in the Box... Through the years, Jack has been part of the birth of a business, death of an ego, and rebirth into the modern mascot we are all so familiar with! Join us as we delve into the life and times of 'The other' Clown, Mr. Jack I. Box, moving through the history of Jack in the Box!

Coscto has been doing everyone a solid for nearly 40 years - if you have been to the Cosco Food Court in he last decades, you have noticed a remarkable feat - he cos of the Costco hotdog has NEVER budged! How are they able to do this? What sort of 'anti inflation' magic is happening here? ...and how did this all begin? Come ake a trip to understand how all came to be..

Today on Weird History Food, we delve deep into the tart world of Pop Tarts! Whether they are the first thing you scarf down in the AM, or the last thing you eat late a night, these warm toasty wonders have been a staple favorite for decades! Exactly who made them? Where did the name come from? How did they evolve into the wonders we know today? ...and, finally, why ARE there two in each package? Grab 'em if you got 'em, and enjoy this video with us - just don't burn the roof of your mouth!

Today on Weird History we are taking you on a mental walkabout to the Outback Steakhouse! How exactly did this kitschy 'Australian' dining experience come about, and did it seriously originate in Australia, or, somewhere entirely different? ...and what is with that bloomin' onion, anyway? Maybe you have eaten there once, twice, or more - if you hav, tell us in the comments what is YOUR favorite outback steakhouse offering!

Today on Weird History Food we are examining the 2004 breakout film 'Supersize Me' by Morgan Spurlock. For a 'documentary', this expose took the country by storm, even being nominated for an Oscar. The film rooted itself deep into the public consciousness for a number of years, until skeptics began to try and replicate Spurlock's claims. Ever since its release, more and people have begun to question its claims, and various legal woes have further dispelled the connection between the physical effects Spurlock experienced and his diet of McDonald's food. Maybe you have seen the film, or maybe you know of these controversies that have erupted in the years since its release!

Today on Weird History Food, we dive deep into the feasting and pageantry of the one and only 'Medieval Times' dinner theater! The Chivalrous History Of Medieval Times spans all the way back to an event held in the 1770s, which at that time harkened back to the glorious Medieval times of England... Over time, new American interest in European medieval games took hold, eventually spawning what we now know as Medieval Times Restaurant. Maybe you've been? Maybe you've always wanted to go? Whatever the case, come take a trip in time with us and see how this way of knight life came to be.

Today on Weird History food, we check out 'The Heart Attack Grill'. Many years ago, one man had an idea for the ultimate restaurant that had food literally 'to die for'. As an ex 'Jenny Craig' dealer, Dr. Jon Basso decided that he wanted to do something different.. What transpired was the only dining establishment where the owner HIMSELF will tell you - the food served should be avoided at all costs! ...But, does anyone listen? And who dares attempt eating the Octuple bypass burger? Come with us as we explore the history of the Heart Attack Grill!!

Today on Weird History Food, we are going into the murky origins of Shasta. Some (or many) might call it an imposter of sorts, but, how well do you really KNOW Shasta soft drinks? Sure, many of its flavors tasted EERILY similar to the classics, but, they sure didn't start out that way... Take a journey with us to the humble bubbling water origins in Siskiyou County, California - in the shadow of Mount Shasta.. Tracing the patchy history of how Shasta 'growth hacked' its way into what we know today!

Today on Weird History Food, we are going back in time to the iconic Jelly Bean company's beginnings... Oh, what a storied road Jelly Belly has taken to get to our modern age - from candy dishes at the White House itself to partnering up with the Harry Potter franchise, how exactly did it become the candy we all know and love today? How did it develop flavors that became a sort of 'tasty roulette' in the form of a board game?

Today on Weird History Food we are looking ino a long standing question - as old as bagels and donuts themselves! ...Exactly why IS i that Bagels and Donuts have holes? Who decided that, and what is the reason for it? Many theories and ideas abund, but, join us as we uncover the abesolute tasty truth of both!

Today n Weird History Food, we are going deep into the past of hat restaurant we all know with the big red roof.. and that great personal pan Pizza... Stroll into the past with us as we look at how two brothers took a risk with heir mom's money, and it paid off... From the people ht fought hard during h 90s Pizza Wars, and gave us all the 'Big Foot Pizza', find out why nobody outpizzas the hut!

Today on Weird History Food, we are delving into the history of Wonka Candy Company! Which came first? Willy Wonka or the Real Life Wonka Candy Company? The film or the chocolate bar? SO many questions! Join us through fascinating tale of life imitating art, a major food company decided to take the reigns on the candy, tethering itself to what amounted to a box office failure. Throughout time, and twists of fate, Wonka Candy endured and gave us some of our favorites!

Today on Weird History Food we travel the globe to check out all the many ic cream styles that were spawned from various places! Ice cream is that incredible invention that can almost NOT go wrong. Do you like your Italian Gelato? Your Thai I-Tim-Pad? Or how about midwestern frozen custard (with chunks of cookies or candy thrown in)? This shout out of history is for all you Ice Cream lovers out there! Let us know what YOUR favorite is! You scream, I scream We ALL Scream for Ice Cream!

Today on Weird History Food we are examining that fast food phenomenon that involves a patty made of fish. Once considered a risky endeavor, the Filet-o-Fish became so sought after on Fridays, particularly during the season of Lent, that all competing fast food joints jumped on the boat and created their own version of the Filet--o-Fish sandwich! Join us us as we explore how this fish sandwich found its way onto fast food menus across the board!

Bread is the stuff of life, and i has a LOONG and storied role in the story of humans. Today on Weird History Food, we are going back in time to he beginnings of bread! Form ancient Mesopotamia all the way up to a most favorite 2020 Pandemic Era pasttime. Do you bake bread? What is your favorite kind of bread to eat? Let us know in the comments!

Today on Weird History Food, we are examining the definition of a sandwich. Is it an age old question, or an internet generated spark for the battle royale of keyboard warriors the world over? In the interest of convenience, people have always been looking to wrap up ingredients for easier eating. Was it the Earl of Sandwich that gave the sandwich its the name? ...And what of 'so called' hot dogs, wraps, and even those odd open faced 'sandwiches'? Well, go ahead, tell us what you think, and why!

Today on Weird History we delve deep into that favorite concoction, the margarita! The source of many of our BEST nights, and possibly worst 'mornings after'! But, who was the first person to get drunk off a margarita? And who may have made that first mixer elixir? Join us as we go back in time, down Mexico way, to explore the invention of frozen margaritas, and who my have been he first to create, and imbibe, this glorious concoction. And while you're at it, let us know in the comments which is YOUR favorite kind of margarita to get tipsy on! Cheers!

Today on Weird History Food wqe are delving deep into the McDonald's menu. Evern deeper than Morgan Spurlock in his investigative film 'Super Size Me!'. We've seen how he meticulously ate everything on the McMenu, but, how exactly did that menu evolve through the years? How did their most famous sandwiches and burgers come to be, and who started it all? Join us as we trace the beginnings of the Big Bac, the Filet-o-fish, and the very humble menu of offerings that McDonald's gave to the world at the very sart!

Today on Weird History food, we are talking about something so good it even has a day of the week dedicated to it. Today we are talkin' tacos!! Hard tacos, soft tacos, and all manner of recipes!! Come with us as we dive deep into where the first tacos were likely made, and trace the history of hw this beloved dish conquered the world!! We all may have a favorite kind... tells us what yours is, and where if can be found! Long Live Taco Tuesdays!!

Burger Joints have popped up over the years, and everyone has heir favorite. Today on Weird History Food, we are going into the history of '5 Guys'. Exactly Who ARE those five guys, and most importantly, why are they charging so much for their food? What goes into a% Guys burger that i the reason for their cost? Sure, just about everything keeps going up, but, in the midst of all, it seems 5 Guys stands out. Today we find out why.

Today on Weird History Food we are diving into Korean BBQ! Samgyeopsal? Bulgogi? Fusion? Where in time did these all originate? Join us as we go way way back to the Goguryeo Period in Korean history, all the way to Los Angeles in 2008 at the creation of the ubiquitous Kogi Korean-Mexican Fusion! What is your favorite kind of Korean BBQ, and most importantly, WHERE is it? ...Asking for a friend..

The Rainforest Cafe... a fever dream the mind of restauranteur Stephen Schussler, has since become a wildly exotic chain of restaurants. Come with us as we delve deep into the past, to the very beginnings, all the way to what we know of the Rainforest Cafe today. Though it's wild style is sure to leave an impression on the mind, the footprint of this themed chain restaurant is shrinking, not unlike the real rain forest! Have you ever been to a Rainforest Cafe? What did you eat?

Today on Weird History Food we are talking about a real crowd pleaser - nachos!! These are a favorite appetizer, and even as a loaded main course! But, who invented nachos, and exactly how did they take over this great nation of ours? ...And most importantly, as we travel around the country talking various types of nachos, answer this: which is YOUR favorite? Let us know!

Today on Weird History Food, we are diving into a bit of the extraordinary - we all have our favorite haunts, but hav you ever dined at an ACTUAL haunted restaurant? Join us, as we explore the paranormal happenings at a number of famous old restaurants throughout America! Stepping back in time, we go deep into why various restaurants are believed to have become haunted, and who these disembodied spirits once were! While many of these restaurants have food that is to die for, the unseen patrons of these places get the most attention!

The past few years have been one strange trip - over the many years, there have been many attempts to create a beverage that isn't beer, but also, quite different than straight hard alcohol... In the recent pas, what was created was an oncoming craze for 'Hard Seltzer' - Beer companies like Budweiser, Coors, as well as bran new companies such as White Claw and other specifically 'hard seltzer' companies rocketed into the public consciousness, right in time for a pandemic to hit. Come with us as we race how this ubiquitous craze caught on, and rocketed to fame.

Today on Weird History Food, we are going to talk about that ubiquitous Panda Express - they are EVERYWHERE! ...But which was the first one ever? We will take you way back to a germ of an idea between a father and son hat grew into what we know today - the company that actually invented orange chicken!

The rise (and fall) of ghost kitchens is somewhat of a spooky tale in and of itself. Built on a shaky foundation, ghost kitchens exploded in popularity, especially during lockdown. Basically, unidentifiable kitchens cooked food that delivery services brought to millions of doorsteps. But who were these so called 'Ghost Kitchens'? How were each of these 'ghost kitchen's rated for food prep safety? Questions like these went out the window as the pandemic took hold, as many people were all too happy to just have tasty food delivered when they couldn't leave their homes. They even put up with the 'wrong orders', smashed food, and inflated price tags. But when lockdown ended, the business model struggled to keep up with 'normal'. Even Youtubers such as MrBeast seem to be regretting getting into the 'Ghost Kitchen' game!

IKEA has saved many a student from a disastrously decorated dorm room. Known for its flat packed furniture, this behemoth brand has shipped countless pieces of furniture all over the world, with insanely complex assembly instructions. All of that is phenomenal, bu, have you ever tried there meatballs? Come with us as we delve into the somewhat checkered past of IKEA, and delve into their culinary offerings that often steal the show!

Restaurants have existed for many many centuries! Some might say there is an art to running a successful restaurant. Its a very fine tuned operation. Join us today as we delve deep into just how subtle (and NOT so subtle) restaurants can be when psychologically getting you to stick around a bit longer so hat more of hat hard earned cash can flow into their coffers! Sure, good food always brings a steady clientele, but, here are MANY tool employed that influence how you eat, what you ea, and how long you stay at a restaurant!

Today on Weird History Food we are examining everything about Hot Dogs! Some will absolutely steer clear, some just cannot get enough (lookin' at you, Joey Chestnut!). With such a wide divide in the public mind, today we will explore the good, the bad, and the nasty that might just be in your hot dog. Oh, and its storied past as well!

Today on Weird History Food, we are examining something that may just make you thirsty... Today, we are examining drinks - Yes, the OG drink was plain old water, but, what did people start drinking after they got tired of just drinking water? Come with us as we examine the likely alternatives that evolved and people started drinking as time went on.

For many many years, people have enjoyed he idea of taking a roadtrip and being able to stop along the way at their favorite restaurant. The consistency of brands such as Olive Garden, Applebee's, Cracker Barrel, McDonalds's etc., and yet, over time, and for all sorts of reasons, chain restaurants have started to shrink, or even outright vanish from the national landscape. Today, we examine why.

Every Summer the season of county fairs rolls around! 'Fairs' have a long tradition spanning eons, apparently, but only in the recent years, the most decadent addition has come to the fair: Deep Fried Fair Foods! In our amazing day and age, fairs have taken on a different kind of freak factor - one of freaky culinary concoctions - deep fried candy, Deep Fried Beer, basically anything edible you can think of, just deep fried! Join us as we examine all of the tastiest, most caloric and absolutely deepest of fried foods you can find at the fair! Let us know in he comments what's a local favorite at YOUR county fair!

Oh Yeeah!!! Today on Weird history Food we are examining exactly how he Kool-Aid man came to be, and how he has evolved over the decades. Born out of the mind of a child, he iconic Kool-Aid man has caused more holes in walls than any of us can count, but he sure does bring a tasty concoction with him!

Calling all video gaming fans! Today we are examining the history of the synergistic fusion of snack and fast food companies in video games! ...Did you ever play Donald Land? How about 'Chester Cheetah too Cool to Fool'?. These collaborations went on for decades, and continue to this day with eSports! Come with us as we look at how it all began!

What could be possibly better than Ice Cream? FroYo! For a huge set of the population, FroYo made a big splash since it started being sold in the U.S. There was 'Everything Yogurt' which opened in 1976, then came TCBY and a host of many other purveyors of FroYo - we all have our favorite! Join us as we trace back how yogurt itself came to be, how the idea of 'frozen yogurt' was born, and how it exploded onto the scene!

Nestle may be a behemoth company, but, they sure brought us a tasty drink that 'quikly' became a favorite drink for generations of kids and adults alike! today on Weird History Food, we will delve into the origins of the OG chocolate drink (brought back to Europe from the Americas), and how Nestle took this concept and ran with it centuries later!

In the world of 'Competitive eating', there can be ONLY one! ...or wait, is it two? Today n Weird History food we delve into the past of Competitive eating competitions, way back to the start of Pie eating contests... and within that framework, we have a look at two titans of the 'sport'. Come with us as we get into the rivalry and personal journey of both Joey Chestnut and Kobayashi. How they ach came to dominate the world of Competitive eating, and how they keep trying to snatch the #1 title from each other!

Today on Weird History Food we are talking Fuddruckers. Whether founded by a mysterious character named 'Dudley P. Fudpucker', or the more likely guy known as 'Phil Romano' (also founder of Roman's Macaroni Grill!), Fuddruckers was born in 1979, and has lived a storied history of growth, near death experience, and a rebirth - all the while making what they argued is 'The World's Best Burgers'. Have you ever eating at a Fuddruckerss? Where was it? And what burger did YOU order?

We are all feeling the insane cost of living these days, but, today on Weird History Food, we are delving deep into the extreme - billed as the grocery store that caters to Celebrities and Influencers, Erewhon sells goods at astronomical costs most people can only laugh at. With most locations in California, what exactly IS this store that puts even Whole Foods to shame? And exactly how did it get this way? Have YOU ever shopped in on? What were your thoughts, if so?

Today we delve into the history of root beer.... Specifically, the brand that Barq's! Well, until recently, claim some.... Barq's root beer has a storied history, and yet, the DRINK we all know as root beer was created long before. Come with us as we go deep into the history of Barq's Rot beer, and see how it managed as competitors began to brew...

In the world of 'Big Pizza', today we focus on one Papa Johns. Armed with a dream, John Schnatter sold his beloved '71 Chevy Camaro, bought some pizza making equipment, and ended up serving many of us watching this video. But that road from obscurity to ubiquity hasn't been without controversies! Jon us as we trace the progress and setbacks of the one and only, Papa John's Pizza - maybe you have ordered it? Is it not as good as it used to be, as the Big Papa John Schnatter now claims?

Even if you don't live anywhere near those fumes in Irwindale, California, is likely you have heard d Sriracha Sauce, and maybe even you are a serious connoisseur! This episode promises be hot! Join us as we go deep into the actual invention of Sriracha sauce, and see how it became the ubiquitous sauce we all know. Let us know if YOU use this liquid fire!

Yo quiero Taco Bell! Today on Weird History we are gonna make you hungry for a titan of tacos! We will go way deep into how the franchise got started by a one Mr. Bell. Starting way back in 1962, with Tacos, then tostadas, the menu just grew and grew over time... with the success of many additions to their menu, they started fusions and mashups of all sorts, many of which are still on the menu today! What is YOUR favorite food from Taco Bell? Le us know!

Today on Weird History food, we examine a most familiar food - PASTA!! Whether your first encounter was grandma's spaghetti, some spaghetti-o's from a can, or whatever the case may be, do you think you know pasta, really? Who invented it? What do records suggest? And exactly what is this magic made of?

Today on Weird History Food, we are delving deep into the History of Chipotle - perhaps you have been to one, and completely avoided getting sick! If so, congratulations! Join us as we examine this ubiquitous chain's humble beginnings in Denver, CO, its brief relationship with McDonald's and all the ups and downs in all the companies years in operation!

Carbonated drinks and sodas, have been around much longer than any of us have been alive! When did the mainstay sodas we know and love start? And most importantly, how has our consumption of these drinks changed over the years? Come with us as we go deep into how soft drinks were first bottled and canned, how the industrialization of mass production brought us the bottle cap we all know, and how the cans and bottles themselves have evolved over time!

Today on Weird History Food we are looking at a truly remarkable culinary invention, Cheez Whiz!!! Perhaps you have some in your fridge right now! In the long and storied history of Cheese, this one is a wist NOBODY saw coming. What even IS this liquid gold? A Dip? A spread? a meal all on is own? Grab some if you got some and enjoy this telling of how it all began.

Some like it mild, some like it hot, but, who DOESN'T like hot sauce? Whatever the brand, whatever the 'Scoville score', just about everyone is int putting a bit o' the hot stuff on their food. Join us as we take a look at what causes all the heat, hw the concept of H sauce even started, and all of the hottest ons you can find today!

Seeing Play Places at our 'go to' fast food stop has been a common experience for most all of us. Whether or not we actually climbed around in hm in the 70s, 80s, or up to the pandemic, we are all very familiar with the concept of them! today on Weird History Food, we look at how they began, how they evolved, and how they sort of fell out of favor (thanks 2020!). Let us know in the comments which camp YOU are in - whether you see them as germ petri dishes that might spread the latest bug, or as fun places to let the kiddos blow off steam while you eat a burger and fries!

Fast food mascots come, fast food mascots go, but, of all the mascots, even though this little one IS gone, the vintage 90s commercials with this little chihuahua have been eared into our collective consciousness. Today on Weird History Food, we examine the unlikely hit that was the Taco Bell Chihuahua, tracing this unlikely marketing campaign as it became a pop culture phenomenon!

Burgers have been ben around long time, and many fast food burger joints tout the best meats in their burgers! But, what is a 100% 'all meat' patty, and what exactly goes into the production of the burger meat we consume? Today we trace the process of creating the meat that ends up between the buns in your favorite fast food burger!

Capri Sun was a staple in all of our childhood school lunches! Though the shape of the drink was odd, and is was such a skill to get the straw in properly, kids across the globe loved this drink, and even to this day (even with the whole 'mold' issue they can have). Lets take a look at how this particular drink began, shall we?

Today on Weird History Food we examine something that everyone is well aware of - the cost of even the cheapest options in the past has gone way way up! It wasn't all that long ago that Fast Food was THE cheapest dining option, but, over the years, that has changed. Today we look at the how great the price changes have been, and the possible reasons why!

The Fast Food Industry exploded like a rocket after World War II. Among all of them, Sonic stands out. With a motto 'fast food at sonic speed', this particular brand had a unique twist from the start. More than anyone else, Sonic championed the days when customers could just roll up and fine dine on their dashboards. Though there have been tweaks over the years, that pleasure is still very much a part of what Sonic offers customers to this day! Join us as we delve into the history of Sonic!

Not so long ago, one sandwich shop launched a series of ad campaigns so catchy and downright strange, they’re probably still lodged in your brain to this day. That shop was Quiznos, and they rode that wave of bizarre humor to become one of the biggest sandwich chains in America. But as quickly as they rose to the top, the joint famous for its weird commercials and toasted sandwiches has faded away into obscurity. So, what the heck happened?

As you could probably guess from the name, a “steakhouse” is a restaurant that specializes in steak. Or… at least claims to. They weren’t invented in the US, but it was America that turned steakhouses into a big business; and then, into a somewhat smaller business. In other words… Today we’re going to take a look at the rise and fall of American steakhouses.

Tony The Tiger has been around through all of our childhoods. Initially conceived as a child friendly mascot, he has gone through many transformations in his evolution. Today on Weird History Food, we examine a rather modern phenomenon that would have Kellogg's founder, John Harvey Kellogg, turning in his grave. You see, Tony The Tiger has become quite the Tiger in the Furry community! And now his hotness has become a viral sensation!

Grape flavored drinks, gum, and other edible candies have been a favorite for many people. But, oddly enough, that designated flavor doesn't actually quite taste like grapes; we just associate the flavor with the fruit when it appears in junk food! Today on Weird History Food, we are going back through the history of when grape flavoring was invented, exactly how that flavor is created, and how it became the breakout flavor we all know and love today!

We all know the name very well, and one thing is clear - WHOEVER this 'Betty Crocker" is, she is an amazing cook! But, is Betty even real? Or, was she just a figment of our collective imagination? Today on Weird History Food we are delving deep into who exactly was Betty Crocker, and how exactly this hybrid sensation became what we know today!

There are all sorts of themed restaurants, and favorite chains that we frequent, but, in all of those, we are talking about one that TRULY stands out. Today on Weird History Food , we have a look at Dick's Last Resort. A very unlikely success story, we dive into this one from the very inception. Who knows? maybe you have had Dick's Big Meat Challenge, maybe Dick's Huge 12" Wiener, a little Dick Margarita, or any of the many offerings at Dick's. This is a place known for its surly waiters and waitresses, and sexual innuendos laid on thicker than the mayo!

If we asked what you think of when we say the name “Jones,” you’d probably say something like James Earl, or Indiana. But if you were thirsty, you might think of “Jones Soda,” the craft soda that once seemed to be all the rage, and then… suddenly wasn’t. So what happened to those colorful little bottles? Today We go into the history of the Kraft soda Jones! Maybe you love drinking Jones soda? Maybe you've even made your own labels? Let us know!

Today's Weird History Food offering completely re-defines the term 'family feud'. If you’ve ever been to Los Angeles, California, then you might have eaten at a popular chain of restaurants called Zankou Chicken. The family-owned business has been a local favorite for decades, but a shocking tragedy nearly closed it all down for good! If you have had their chicken and amazing garlic paste, which location did you go to?

When Wendy’s opened its first location in the winter of ‘69, founder Dave Thomas was already a pro at serving high quality fast food. As a former owner and operator of KFCs in Ohio, Thomas decided to ditch the chickens for good old American beef. But with over fifty years of scrumptious square burgers and flavorsome Frosties, the Wendy’s menu has seen considerable changes. Let us know YOUR favorite item at Wendy's is!

The Del Taco fast food chain has been a California mainstay for the better part of 60 years, building a fanbase that rivals that of much larger operations like Taco Bell. But what might be surprising to some taco "stans" is that Del Taco's history has always been entwined with Taco Bell's, and the two have been unspoken rivals in the fast food fiesta wars from the very beginning.

In the pantheon of casual dining experiences, few middle-class fancy eateries have experienced a trajectory like Chili's. From their rustic roots to an expansive nationwide chain, this southwestern sit-down has seen all the ups and downs of the industry. But where many casual dining chains have entered a modern age of decline, the big red pepper has somehow re-entered the building. So, how exactly did Chili’s get its groove back?

Root Beer is a sweetened carbonated beverage which, despite its name, has little to nothing to do with actual beer. Nonetheless, people throughout the world enjoy it so enthusiastically you could be forgiven for thinking it contains alcohol. And while there are dozens of different brands of the ol’ sarsaparilla, a handful of iconic sodas have been sitting at the top of the heap for the past century. But which one is the best?

The Filet-O-Fish is one of the most famous items on the McDonald's menu. Before the advent of its fishy schtick, the fast-food giant only sold burgers, fries, milkshakes, and various drinks like coke, root beer, milk, and coffee. These classic items served the chain well for well over a decade. But as the franchise expanded, so did the needs of the fast-food-loving public, and the Filet-O-Fish caught our collective attention—hook, line, and sinker. But how much fish is actually in it? And is it even fish?

If you’re a comic book fan, “Red Robin” is one of the superhero aliases used by Batman’s sidekick. But if you’re a hamburger fan, the name likely makes you think of Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews and a bottomless basket of fries before the Boy Wonder. Despite some splashy successes, and some truly excellent boozy milkshakes, the once-mighty eatery has tumbled from the highest branch in recent years. So what happened?

We’ve all indulged in those ready-made meals at the supermarket, even though they’re usually not the kindest to our wallets. But there is one supermarket staple that continues to satisfy both our hankerings and our bank accounts - the rotisserie chicken. These slow cooked supermarket saviors have been a favorite for frugal customers frantically seeking a scrumptious meal. But how are they so affordable? Is there some dark secret behind these tasty birds?

The fast food landscape is a vicious and ever-evolving competition full of cutthroat tactics to sell consumers the largest amounts of food at the cheapest price possible. That’s why we love it so much. But unfortunately, all good things must come to an end It seems those once-reliable guilty pleasures have started to skimp on their portions, leaving wounded customers wondering what went wrong. But did that Junior Chee really get more junior, or is it all in our heads?

For decades now, pretty much every fast food place has unveiled a secret sauce that allegedly gives their food a unique zing their competitors could only dream of. And for just as long, people have been trying to find out what exactly is in them! Well, today we do our best to spill the sauce!

Once upon a time, almost every fast food place in America had a bar. A salad bar, that is. Heck, a bunch of them even had full on all-you-can-eat buffets, which feels a little more in line with cheeseburger culture. But then, without warning, those bars and buffets started vanishing just as quickly as they had appeared.

Whether you’re headed to McDonald’s for a Big Mac, a box of Chicken McNuggets, or a Filet o’Fish, odds are… you’re probably gonna have some fries with that. And that’s because -- all over the world -- pretty much everyone loves the taste of McDonald’s french fries. So what’s the secret?

Grilled, fried, or rare. Whole, sliced, or massaged and beer-fed… Americans love a good steak. But with a red meat scare on the rise, many steakhouse regulars face grave concerns. Is chowing down on all that beef truly unhealthy, or has steak simply been slandered for the last few decades?

If you were alive in the 1980s and '90s, then you remember the glory days of fruit snacks. Some of them were gummy. Some of them gushed. And some of them were oddly stringy. But the undisputed champion of fruity deliciousness was the snack that rolled. General Mills' legendary fruit roll-ups have been a part of kids' lunches and snack times since 1983, and over the years, they've had their sticky fingers on all sorts of triumphs and controversies. But how were they invented? And exactly how much "fruit" is rolled into that cellophane wrapper?

They say “you’ve gotta have heart.” But whoever they were, they clearly weren’t talking about Hart House, a Vegan Fast Food Restaurant founded by comedian Kevin Hart. Despite the best intentions, the chain was so short lived it’s likely you never even heard of it before it blinked out of existence forever. So what went wrong?

Unless you’ve been living on Mars, odds are you've heard the phrase “Snap into a Slim Jim!”. Probably from a professional wrestler. Slim Jims are a “meat snack” that is similar to, but legally distinct from beef jerky, and in the 1990s, they were everywhere. But all of a sudden, this once-dominant salty treat seemingly blinked out of existence, as if Thanos snapped into one. So, what happened?

The Flintstones was a sitcom that ran on A-B-C from 1960 to 1966, making history as the first animated show to air in primetime. While the show has been off the air for decades, the Flintstones are still a regular fixture in many of our lives thanks to the continued success of a certain brand of breakfast cereals. In fact, it’s possible some people only know them as grocery store mascots, and have no idea the show ever existed.

Picture it: you’re out to eat and the smell of loaded potato skins is strong. The walls are adorned with an attic’s worth of knick-knacks, the wait staff is cheery in their white and red striped uniforms, and you’re mesmerized by the tricks the bartender is performing in the background, because in here, it’s always Friday night.

Is dessert really dessert without Cool Whip? It’s practically against the law to serve pie or ice cream without a dollop of the light, fluffy spread - or an entire tub, if it’s your birthday. But while it feels as though it's always been there for us, Cool Whip is a fairly recent invention. And we’ve never really been sure what it actually is.

When it comes to casual dining, we all know the biggest players in the game. Fast food franchises like McDonald's and Taco Bell, or sit-down restaurants like Denny's and Cracker Barrel have dominated America for decades. But you can't hold onto market domination without a little market innovation, which is why many of these giants have tried to duplicate their success with spin-off restaurants!

Subway is one of the most well known submarine sandwich chain of all time. And for a while, they were cruising along like a train. But somewhere along the way, the ride got a little bumpy, and eventually the franchise all but derailed. So what happened, like , ASIDE from that whole fiasco with Jared Fogel?

Back in the 1980s, Domino’s Pizza encouraged their customers to “avoid the Noid” -- a strange claymation creature who starred in a series of popular ads for the chain. But the ads turned out to be a little too popular, leading to a dramatic crime that no one could have predicted. How did an animated mascot cause so much havoc?

Back in 2003, South Park premiered an episode about an outlandish Mexican restaurant with cliff diving, puppet shows and even a full-on cave system. For most people outside the Colorado area, it was their introduction to Lakewood local legend, Casa Bonita. The real-life, kid-focused plaza de comida has been lovingly described as “so bad, it's good,” and for 50 years has dazzled families with live entertainment, charming attractions and even fire breathers, before it became a violation of fire code. About the only thing people do not remember fondly was the food - that is, until South Park stepped in and saved it!

Ice cream trucks are a cornerstone of classic, nostalgic Americana… but where did they come from? How do they pick their routes? Don’t those drivers get sick of hearing “Pop Goes the Weasel” over and over again all day? And why are they more dangerous than you thought? Let us know in the comments of your most memorable Ice Cream truck experience growing up!

In the history of fruit flavored sodas, the almighty Fanta might just reign supreme. With a massive worldwide following and a long history of international production, this orange beverage has become a favorite for just about everyone on the planet…Unless you’re an American that is. As beloved as Fanta is by its diehard fans, U.S. sales for the citrus pop can’t even crack the top five. So what gives?

Everyone has a favorite flavor. Strawberry, or grape, or Pina Colada if you were the weird kid. However, there’s an unspoken agreement that every flavor is based on something you’d eat in the real world, and nothing throws a funky monkey wrench into the works like blue raspberry. This Frankenstein's Monster of sugary creations with its distinct electric color can’t be based on anything found in nature… can it?

When you’re on a road trip, late for work or just feeling the vibes and looking to chow down on some munchies, the green, orange and white glow of the 7-Eleven sign is ready to accept your rumbly tummy 24 hours a day. And we know it's not good for us, but how bad is it really?

From the overloaded cones of a crunchy temaki roll, to the sparse and delicately sliced slabs of nigiri, sushi comes in a variety of forms. While these bite-sized bundles of rice have been saddled with fresh fish for over two thousand years, sushi’s popularity in the West is a relatively recent phenomenon. But like many Japanese art forms, the craft of sushi requires immense skill and comes with a long list of strict rules. And when Americans first started taking a dip in the soy sauce, everything went to hell in a handroll.

Hot dogs are synonymous with America’s favorite pastime: baseball. But the delicious and savory treat is also commonly associated with a particular shade of pink in the heart of Hollywood. Pink’s Hot Dogs have been a Los Angeles institution for decades. So why do they have to cost as much as a trip to the west coast?

If you’re lucky enough to live near one, then you’ve probably heard that Raising Cane’s chicken is so good, it could make the Colonel fly the coop. The upstart chicken finger eatery with a youthful, fun vibe seemingly came out of nowhere to challenge KFC for the cluckin’ throne. But is there really one tender to rule them all?

The McDonald’s apple pie isn’t just a fast-food dessert—it’s a piece of pop culture history. Since its debut in 1968, this crispy, golden treat has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of customers worldwide, evolving over the decades from its beloved fried form to the controversial baked version. But how did it become such an iconic menu item? And why is it so damn lip-scorching?

Since the 1850s, this sweet, golden, bubbly beverage with a spicy kick has been refreshing soda lovers around the world. Ginger Ale is beloved as both the perfect drink mixer and upset tummy soother. Over the years, dozens of brands have put their own spin on the original formula. But which brand is the tastiest? The fizziest? The ginger-est? And which is YOUR favorite? Let us know in the comments!

It’s been said that the only things you can count on in this life are death and taxes. But whoever said that clearly didn’t realize that after all these years, a tall boy of Arizona Iced Tea still costs less than a dollar. How is that possible?

Hard-boiled. Soft-boiled. Poached. Raw. Over Easy. Sunny Side Up. Over Medium. No, these aren’t the names of award-winning Huskies. They are different ways you can prepare an egg. Eggs have been enjoyed on their own or in countless different recipes for centuries. So how did we end up eating these weird little orbs in the first place?

If you’re the kind of person who eats omelets for breakfast - or the kind of person who enjoys adventurous juggling - then you’ve probably noticed that eggs have gotten pretty pricey lately. It’s tempting to blame that cost increase on greedy chickens, but as it turns out, it’s actually the work of some vast and mysterious macro-economic forces that can be hard to predict and even harder to budget for.

Guy Fieri, the self-proclaimed "Mayor of Flavortown," is one of the most recognizable figures in American media. With his spiked blonde hair, flame shirt, and famous catchphrases, he has built a food empire that spans television, restaurants, and all of pop culture. Yet despite his success, Guy Fieri has experienced the ups and downs of public opinion, rising to fame as a beloved Food Network star before falling out of favor with the American public and becoming a punchline.

You probably know exactly when and where you first fell in love with Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza - a marvel of fast-food engineering so beloved that it's almost a cultural icon. But how did this crispy, cheesy, tomato-y masterpiece come to be? Why did it disappear? And is it back for good, or is it just back long enough to make us fall in love again before breaking out hearts like a store bought taco shell?

If you’ve ever ordered a burger and asked them to hold the pickles, you’ve technically committed a “Menu Hack.” So-called secret menus have become increasingly popular in the social media age, with excited customers posting hours of content about how to access items that are “hidden” from the regular menu by altering dishes or inventing new ones entirely using the ingredients a restaurant has on-hand. Every so often, these hacks will be popular enough to become a legend in the kitchen, accessible only to a select few who know how to order them.

Root beer is a timeless American beverage. Its cold snap and delicious taste have engendered millions of devotees over the past 100 years. From coal mines to baseball diamonds, root beer has been beloved by people from basically every walk of life. And yet, there’s one brand that stands above the rest when it comes to this liquid confection. A&W. So how did one brand rise above all the others to remain at the top of the heap for more than a century?

New Jersey: The Garden State. Home to the first ever organized baseball game, the first boardwalk in the world, the first saltwater taffy, the first drive-in movie theater, the first brewery. They even cooked the first can of condensed soup! But the best thing New Jersey came out with, second only to Nicole ‘Snooki’ Polizzi, is the first submarine sandwich shop: Mike’s Subs. This little shop eventually grew into a national chain you know as Jersey Mike’s. So how did this humble sandwich artist become an icon?

Mister Donut is Japan’s biggest donut franchise; so big in fact, they ran Dunkin Donuts right out of the whole country back in the nineteen-nineties. It’s ok, Dunkies; you’ll always be welcome with Ben Affleck. Trouncing the biggest player in America’s donut industry at their own game is pretty impressive for a Japanese upstart, but turns out, Mister Donut isn’t actually Japanese.

Following in the footsteps of other great military leaders like General Tso and Colonel Sanders, Cap’n Crunch made himself a fortune in the food business. But despite the brand’s storied history and dedicated fanbase, even the Captain’s biggest supporters are willing to admit that his cereal is murder on the roof of your mouth. So why are we all OK with it? Have YOU ever ripped your mouth up with a bowl of Cap'n Crunch? Let us know in the comments!

McDonald’s is world famous for their fries, burgers and McNuggets. But when it comes to chicken sandwiches, Ronald McDonald has come off like a bit of a clown until very recently. How is it possible that the world’s most famous fast food franchise can get so many things so incredibly right while getting chicken sammies so incredibly wrong? Have you ever had a chicken sandwich from McDonald's? What Did you think about it? Let us know in the comments!

Whether it’s your go-to spot for a quick and easy bite, or if you’re having their noteworthy “Fourth” meal of the day, Taco Bell has a reputation of being quick, cheap, and delicious… as well as one of the worst things you could possibly put inside your body. Jokes about the quality of the food became so pervasive that the brand was actually sued in 2011 over claims of faking their beef. But is it truly bad enough to make you run from the border? And let us know in the comments wht you think of the 'meat'!

Soju, literally translating to “burned liquor”, is Korea’s most popular spirit. The clear, colorless beverage traditionally brewed from rice has experienced a boom in the U.S. in recent years, thanks in part to the popularity of Korean entertainment like the Netflix series Squid Game and K-pop groups like BTS. Unlike Scotch or bourbon, there are no specific legal rules for producing soju and there’s no precise definition of what soju is or has to be, but if you want to order a traditional round, there ARE rules to how you drink it. So… what is it?

Known for their chewy texture, bright colors and shiny wrappers, AirHeads candy evokes fond memories of childhood as well as the snack bar at the local public pool. Perhaps you remember the not quite sticky, not quite stretchy but 100% delicious candy treat from its prominence on candy shelves, its constantly varying line of products or those bizarre commercials where the kids' heads inflate like a balloon and float away. But what the heck are they? And how has the sweet treat stood the test of time for nearly 40 years?

Saint Patrick’s Day was originally created to honor the death of Patrick, a fifth century Romano-British cleric who became the patron saint of Ireland. Today, however, it’s most famous for being an excuse to binge drink… Shamrock Shakes from McDonald’s, that is. But how did this minty treat become an annual favorite? And why can’t we have it year-round?

Tony Roma's and their delicious ribs used to be everywhere from Times Square in New York City to Tokyo, Japan. But if you live in the United States, you might have noticed a distinct lack of Roma's ribs in your vicinity in recent years. This mysterious disappearance has led many barbecue fans to wonder what exactly happened to the once-prominent chain we all knew and loved.

If you were ever a kid, then odds are, you know what bubble gum tastes like. Its flavor has been used in everything from jelly beans to ice cream to lip balm, but most of us would still be hard pressed to explain what that flavor is. Go ahead - try and describe it without using the words "bubble gum." So, what the heck is it supposed to taste like? And where did it come from anyway?

Ever felt like you needed a second mortgage just to satisfy your burger craving at a Shake Shack? The posh patty palace is one of America’s most popular fast food chains, despite charging considerably more than its competitors. And while customers have little complaints about the food, is it really worth shaking out your wallet?

There’s always room for Jell-O. It’s the only food that somehow exists in equal abundance at preschools, hospitals, jails, and frat parties. But before it became a college drinking tradition or the mysterious side dish at your grandma’s Thanksgiving table, it was a simple, affordable dessert that promised elegance without the effort. So how did this tremulous treat become one of the most popular products in the history of… well, ever?

Umami Burger burst onto the scene in 2009, offering customers a unique fusion menu combining Japanese spices and ingredients with gourmet American burgers. The chain quickly expanded to become one of the biggest culinary success stories of the day, poised to take burgers to the next level, until it all came tumbling down like a triple stack with no toothpick. So what happened?

During the middle of the 20th century, it seemed you couldn’t walk into a single establishment without seeing a familiar red and chrome machine with a glass dome PACKED with colored balls in every color of the rainbow. Who was putting them there? Where did they come from? And when is the last time you remember even buying a gumball from a machine, let alone seeing one in person?

When you think of pizza, you think of a hut, or a domino, possibly a little caesar, and maybe even a Shaq. What you don’t think of is McDonald’s. So it will probably surprise you to hear that not too long ago, McDonald’s tried really hard to add pizza to its menu. While it existed, did YOU ever try it? If you were able to sample this unicorn, what did you think about it? Let us know in the comments!

If there’s one thing we all have in common, it’s that at one time or another every one of us has dreamed about poking The Pillsbury Doughboy in the belly. The friendly little mascot has been repping the Pillsbury Company for over half a century. But who is The Pillsbury Doughboy? How did he come to be one of the most recognizable mascots in America for generations?

For the past five decades, the Filipino fast food chain Jollibee has rapidly expanded around the world to compete with the heavyweights, even toppling McDonald’s two-to-one in its home country. But how did a pair of humble ice cream stands grow big enough to snatch Ronald’s crown? Have YOU eaten at a Jollibee? What did you have? Let us know in the comments!

Back when shopping malls were all the rage, you couldn’t walk through the various stores and stands without seeing at least one person carrying a clear, plastic cup of Orange Julius. Despite just about every shopping mall worth its salt boasting an Orange Julius somewhere in its twisty halls, you could rarely find someone who had ever tried one, even fewer who actually liked it, and no one who could tell you what the hell it was. Have you ever had an Orange Julius? Let us know in the comments!

If you’ve driven anywhere in America, you’ve probably seen the neon “Hot Now!” signs hanging in the window of every Krispy Kreme. The chain is famous for its hot glazed donuts, a niche it rolled out for itself like so much pastry dough to stand out from its competitors. How did the once-struggling chain rise up to challenge Dunkin?

One area where Burger King has always had an edge over McDonald’s are its uniquely weird commercials; in particular, a series of ads in the mid-aughts featuring a perpetually-smiling King that briefly pushed the fast food chain into the spotlight. Despite an initial explosion in sales, and the King becoming so popular he starred in a trio of Xbox games, Burger King couldn’t deliver a dining experience that matched the fun of the character. In fact, they seem to have always had this problem. So what gives?

Whether it was Coke, Pepsi, or a supermarket brand, at some point or another pretty much everyone has tasted a cola flavored beverage. But have you ever tried to describe what Coke or Pepsi tastes like? Go ahead, give it a shot. It can’t be done. Despite being regularly consumed by billions of people all over the world, “cola” isn’t a flavor with a widely-accepted definition, or even one that’s widely known. So what’s the big secret?

No matter where you are on the planet, you’re bound to see those iconic Golden Arches. McDonald's has become a global phenomenon by adapting its menu to local tastes and preferences around the world. This tastebud localization strategy has led to a wide array of unique and sometimes shocking menu items that are very different from the stuff you’d find at a Mickey D’s in America. So what ARE they serving across the pond and beyond?

Located at the Hard Rock Hotel in Ibiza, Spain, Sublimotion lays claim to being the single priciest restaurant on the planet. And probably several OTHER planets. You're probably wondering what it feels like to eat there, and we can tell you that it feels expensive. But if you want more than that, check out this video!

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have been kicking butt and crackin’ wise since their humble beginnings as comic book crusaders in 1983. They’re cool, rude and of course, they LOVE pizza. The Heroes in a Halfshell are about as synonymous with pizza as they are with fighting the Shredder, which lead to some pretty memorable promotions with Pizza Hut, both old and recent. In fact, it’s fair to say that the pizza delivery boom of the 80s and 90s owes a lot to these radical reptiles. So let us know what you think, and what's YOUR favorite memory of TNMT?

When you’re trying to squeeze the most out of a buck and the Walmarts and Target’s close by are a bit too luxurious, you can always count on Dollar General. For 70 years, thrifty customers have been able to buy their groceries at the one-stop-dollar shop and not break the bank in the process. But at some point, you gotta start wondering how they can sell everything for such low, low prices and not only stay in business, but seemingly open new stores as frequently as one opens a door?

The story of Cherry Coke began with a whole lot of teenage flirting at the drugstore soda fountain, which might be one reason why the drink is so associated with young people. But Cherry Coke wasn’t the first cherry cola at the dance. Heck, it wasn’t even the second. So how did it become the number one soda of summers at the drive-in, and remain an enduring youthful favorite to this day?

Man v. Food was a glorious mix of travel, tradition, and towering stacks of meat—and it gave us one of the most oddly beloved icons in food TV: Adam Richman. But behind the 5-pound burritos and atomic hot wings is a story of internet scandals, near-death experiences, and a show that just couldn’t quit. And what was once one of the biggest Food Network shows of the 2000s suddenly disappeared like ranch dressing at a hot wings challenge. So, what happened? Did you ever watch the show? Let us know in the comments!

The Bubba-Gump Shrimp Company seafood restaurant chain inspired by the movie 'Forrest Gump' struck most people as a quick cash-in that also wouldn’t amount to much. But much like Forrest Gump, this chain really suprised man! Have you ever eaten at one? Let us know in the comments!

Disneyland is famous for its ridiculously long lines. And one or two other things. But some of the longest lines are for something called Dole Whip, a delicious frozen treat that - for a while - you could only get by taking a trip to the happiest place on Earth. So how did a simple drink sponsored by a fruit company become a destination icon? Have YOU ever had a Dole Whip? Ever bought Dole Whip at the grocery store? Let us know in the comments!

Everyone knows what it’s like to be with a big group of friends who can’t agree on where to grab dinner. That’s when it’s time to head to The Cheesecake Factory. Featuring delicious desserts, strange and unique Egyptian decor and a coil-bound, 21-page Menu featuring around 250 items to choose from, you truly can’t go wrong with a trip to the Cheesecake Factory. With a menu that offers just about any food under the sun, plus a section of highly delectable cheesecakes, the mind wonders how the legendary Cheesecake Factory menu came to be, and why it’s the size of a small phone book? Have you eaten at one? What was your favorite dish there? Let us know in the comments!

McDonald’s Quarter Pounder is arguably the chain’s most iconic sandwich outside of the Big Mac itself. But where did this heavyweight hero come from? And how has it stayed so popular despite being so simple? Most important of all, how many of these culinary wonders to you think you have eaten over the years? let us know in the comments!

There’s a moment—somewhere between paying for your ticket and being blasted into a galaxy far far away by Dolby Surround Sound—that you catch a whiff of that smell. Buttery. Salty. Irresistible. You weren’t even hungry before, but now you’re on a mission. A mission for movie theater popcorn. Where did you have your last Movie Theater Popcorn? Let us know in the comments!

Since the beginning of modern fast food, there has been the milkshake. Burgers and shakes are the staple at nearly every fast food restaurant you can find. But when did burgers and milkshakes become inseparable? And when did it become a requirement for every burger joint in America to put its own spin on the classic treat?

"Whole wheat or white bread?" It's a question you've probably been asked while your face was pressed against a Subway sneeze guard. And if you're a health conscious consumer, chances are you opted for whole grain over white bread. And why wouldn't you?

There are some things you never outgrow: chicken nuggets, naps, and the magic of Yoo-hoo. Maybe it’s the iconic yellow label. Maybe it’s the fun-to-say name. Or maybe it’s because Yoo-hoo exists in a category of its own: part drink, part nostalgia, part “what the heck is this, actually?” Because here’s the thing: Yoo-hoo is not chocolate milk. It is a “chocolate drink.” But who made this mysterious chocolate potion, and why does it taste so good despite looking kinda like brown water?

If you’re the kind of person who really loves your steamed Chinese soup dumplings then there’s a better than average chance you’ve heard of Din Tai Fung. Over the past few decades, the chain and its famous xiaolongbao soup dumplings have achieved semi-legendary status everywhere from Asia to Europe to the U-S. So what’s the secret sauce?

Tang is a vitamin-enhanced, powdered breakfast drink that -- once upon a time -- was practically synonymous with NASA and the astronauts of the U-S space program. And if you’ve ever wondered how a random fruit drink mix got its name attached to one of the most prestigious endeavors in the history of science, then stick around.

No one has ever gotten into a fistfight over which of the big pizza chains is the best - defending the honor of Pizza Hut just isn’t worth a fist to the eye. But everyone has that one hometown pizza chain you’d go to the mat for. But which one is TRULY the best?

Before it was a nationwide steak empire with a tongue-twister name where you go to impress your in-laws or celebrate a big raise… There was just a guy named Chris, a sizzling steak, and a tiny restaurant in New Orleans. That is until a Ruth-less and savvy business woman managed to change things forever. This is the beefy, buttery, slightly burned-at-the-edges origin story of Ruth’s Chris Steak House, a name so confusing, you’d think someone lost a bet. Turns out, the story is even more interesting than that.

If you were ever a kid in a candy store, odds are you know exactly which candy to grab a handful of if you’re aiming to scratch that sour itch. A moderate sour craving could be satisfied with a pack of sour patch kids or maybe a box of lemonheads. But for those candy thrill-seekers who really wanted to pucker up, the only solution was sour Warheads. Warheads are as delicious as they are.. terrifying!

Some of the best childhood memories happened in the ice cream parlor. Birthdays, big team victories and special occasions all seem much better when someone behind the counter is asking “one scoop or two?” or “haven’t you had enough free samples yet?” But despite all the sweet, delicious memories, when the heck was the last time you even saw an ice cream parlor, let alone stepped inside one? Do ice cream parlors even still exist?

Banana flavoring. Just hearing those words probably triggers a specific memory. Maybe it’s that weirdly chewy piece of Laffy Taffy you made a trade for during school lunch. Maybe it’s the smell of a banana popsicle you tried once and never fully recovered from. Or maybe it’s Circus Peanuts. No, really - we’ll get there. The point is, banana is one of the most ubiquitous flavors in desserts and candy. So how come none of it actually tastes like bananas?

When Kraft Singles came onto the scene in the mid-20th century, they seemed too good to be true. Households across the US were delighted at a low cost cheese option that simply refused to spoil. Until the questions started coming in. What is this stuff? How can sliced cheese stay good for so long? Is it actually food?

When we’re horking down our favorite drive-thru burger, most of us aren’t thinking about the bun. But the bun is vital to the entire burger experience - it's the first thing you taste, setting the stage for the rest of the sandwich. And if everything isn’t perfect, it can throw off the whole sandwich. So how is it that a fast food place like McDonald’s seems to get it right every time?

For kids in the 90s, there were few better microwave meal options than the noble Hot Pocket. A simple turnover stuffed with pizza, the Hot Pocket inspired as much loyalty as fear among its fans, as its ability to burn the hell out of your mouth became the stuff of schoolyard legend. But where did they come from? Who invented this lava-filled rectangle of raditude? How many times did you scorch your moth eating these? Let us know in the comments!

Forget what you know about gas stations—Buc-ee’s is more than a truck stop, it’s a full-blown roadside attraction. Known for its immaculate bathrooms, smoked brisket, wall-to-wall snacks and souvenirs, and a beaver mascot with surprising star power, Buc-ee’s is a must-visit destination. People plan entire road trips around it, driving hours just to grab a T-shirt or a kolache. So how did a simple stop-and-fuel become a destination vacation?

It’s a hot summer day and you want a cool, tasty beverage with absolutely no sugar or carbs anywhere in sight, and water simply will not do. So you reach for a Diet Coke, but then notice the bottle of Coke Zero Sugar next to it, and that’s when the confusion sets in. Which should you get? Is one better than the other? Is there even a difference?

Even to those raised in a culture where it’s the norm, the practice of tipping can often seem downright random. Why do we tip some service providers for their efforts, but not others? Why are some jobs allowed to pay so little as long as there’s the expectation that tips will cover the rest? And who exactly made all these unspoken rules?

The average American drinks more than 45 gallons of bottled water per year. That’s a lot of water and a LOT of bottles. It seems especially jarring considering we get the same amount of water from our taps for the low, low price of our utility bill. But at some point, bottled water not only became popular, it was downright hip. So hip, in fact, that designer water became something advertising companies assured us we cannot do without. Fancy bottles, sparkling waters from the far reaches of the earth and even major bling has taken over the bottled water industry and turned it into the next top fashion. But is bougie, top-shelf bottled water actually any better for you than the stuff that comes out of your faucet? Which Do YOU Drink? Let Us Know in the comments!

Burgers have been a staple in lunch and dinners since their inception around the turn of the 20th century. Since that time, burgers have evolved, morphed and grown over the decades to become one of the most popular and most competitive foods in the country, with new styles and trends popping up regularly to transform the entire industry. But what were all those decade-defining burgers? The ones everyone and their brother couldn’t wait to order?

Walk into a grocery store today and you’ll probably find a can of something called probiotic soda, the biggest health-food hit in the soda aisle since sparkling water and Diet Coke. But what exactly is a probiotic soda supposed to do for you? And are they actually good for your health, or just another low calorie flash in the pan?

When your tummy is rumbling for something fancy and the local fast food joints just won’t cut it, you can do worse than stopping by your local Panera Bread. When the doors open, you’re hit with a dozen smells of fresh bread, bubbling soups and sweet treats from the bakery all cooking an upscale meal for incriminating tastebuds. While Panera has the reputation of a higher-quality, fast casual dining experience, one has to wonder just how much can you expect to pay for two slices of bread, some meat and a bowl of soup?

Gordon Ramsay has made a career out of screaming at people, and rescuing their struggling businesses. Kitchen Nightmares remains one of the celebrity chef’s most popular shows in America, following Ramsay as he helps transform restaurants on the edge of bankruptcy into successes. But how real ARE those nightmares, and how much is played up for the cameras?

While most of us coasted through childhood in a veritable sugar haze, it turns out all the fruit punches, apple juices and colorful elixirs we were throwing back in the cafeteria didn’t always have our good health in mind. But how can drinks that taste vaguely like fruit be bad for us?

Sour Patch Kids are gummy candies that -- for some reason -- are shaped like human children. Uh, sort of. Have you ever stopped to wonder why these sour treats look like a tiny person with a radical haircut? Who decided that was a good shape for candy?

It’s 8:47 a.m. You’re running late and you’re wearing sunglasses indoors. You didn’t plan to go to McDonald’s, but somehow you’ve wound up in the drive-thru, whispering your order like it’s a confession. And then it hits you. That smell. That sizzle. That little paper sleeve holding a golden, crispy oval that absolutely did not need to go that hard. McDonald’s hash browns aren’t just good. They’re emotional support potatoes. How often do you eat them? Let us know in the comments!

Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are more than just a snack. For years, this radioactive red chip has captivated spice-lovers, confused parents, inspired music videos, and even sent kids to the hospital. And the backstory? It has everything: a rags-to-riches janitor-turned-executive tale, a corporate mystery worthy of a Netflix docuseries, and a brand so spicy it sparked a food revolution.

Cream Soda, the beverage that was designed to be a dessert in drink form, was one of the original soda recipes. Once an iconic staple of pharmacy soda shops across America, this retro beverage still keeps a dedicated fanbase, but it’s nowhere nearly as popular as Coke or Pepsi. So what happened? ...Do you drink Cream Soda? IF so, what's YOUR favorite? Let us know in the comments!

Would you buy a feast from a beast? What if that beast were “Mister Beast” and that feast was a Feastables chocolate bar? If you said yes, you’re not alone. The Feastables snack line has been an unmitigated triumph for Mister Beast -- even though celebrity-based products have a disastrous hit rate. So how did he zig where everyone else zagged? What Do Yoy think about Feastables? Have you ever had one? Let us know in the comments!

The juice is loose! Or it would be, if it weren’t contained by those miraculous contraptions we call juice boxes. The handy packages are a ubiquitous part of school lunches throughout much of the world, and we all love them for it. But how did they infiltrate our lunchboxes to become one of the biggest staples of childhood? What Were Some of YOUR Favorites? Let Us Know in the Comments!

It’s a Friday night in 1987and you’re wearing your best acid washed jeans with your Frankie Says Relax shirt. Your date’s hair has reached full Aqua Net structural integrity and you just slid into a red vinyl booth at Chi-Chi’s with a basket of free chips and a cold, syrupy margarita the size of a birdbath. Chi-Chi’s wasn’t just a restaurant. It was where Midwest families went to feel spicy.

If you grew up in the early aughts, odds are you had a Fruitopia machine in your school. They just seemed to appear one day in the 90s as if from nowhere, offering fruity nectar of the gods to anyone brave enough to gaze upon the kaleidoscope imagery of its glowing display. While many may not remember Fruitopia and even fewer have actually tried it, for a time it was on top of the world. So why did it get tossed out of paradise?

Road weary families looking for a quick place to lay their heads for the night want to wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day, and nothing does that quite like free orange juice and danishes in the little room next to the ice machine. Any hotel worth its weight in mini-muffins aims to please their clientele with a continental breakfast.

Clamato Juice is a beverage with a name that implies it’s made from a combination of clams and tomatoes and designed to prank your friends into chugging what they think is cloudy fruit punch. But are there really shellfish in that strange, bottled elixir? And who in their right mind would drink it on purpose?

If you’re a fan of macaroni and cheese, and not cooking for yourself, then there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Annie’s Homegrown. Buoyed by its health related claims, the company has managed to turn its flagship product into one of the biggest brands in the U-S. But how did they climb to the top so fast? And are their cheesy noodles truly a more health-conscious choice?

No seafood boil is complete without the right seasoning. And everyone from the Mid-Atlantic knows that the "right seasoning" is Old Bay. But how has this simple spice bland cemented itself as a seafood staple? And when did people start using it on popcorn, potato salad, and around the rim of Bloody Marys?

Celsius is part of the next wave of energy drinks marketed toward fitness-minded adults, particularly women. It’s a pick-me-up in a can that’s made a name for itself by being the healthy alternative to “gamer fuel” like Monster and Red Bull. But is it really any better for you than a standard energy drink, or is it all just a bunch of red bull?

Sushi! It’s delicate. It’s delicious. It’s got raw fish in it. And for many Americans, it’s absolutely terrifying when you see it sitting next to a taquito roller at a Shell station. But is gas station sushi really the intestinal minefield it’s made out to be? Or has it been a hidden catch of the day all along?

“Naked Juice” may sound like something they have to mop off the floor after shooting an adult movie, but fortunately for us all, that’s not the case. It’s actually a line of fruit juices, protein smoothies, fruit smoothies and other similar beverages; and if you have any questions about the brand, you’re in luck, because today we’re going to take a look at the naked truth about Naked Juice.

We don’t typically drink milk or juice out of fountains, but for some reason, the soda fountain remains one of the dominant distribution systems for soft drinks. In fact, if you’ve left your house in the past fifty years, you’ve likely noticed that pretty much every fast food joint, convenience store and movie theater now has one. How did soda fountains manage to conquer virtually all of food service?

When you were a kid at school, nothing beat the moment you could finally crack open your lunchbox and see what awesome treats your parents packed away for you… or which ones you snuck in there yourself when they weren’t looking. But while those lunchbox snacks were always a delight, they weren’t always healthy. In fact, several could be called delicious slow acting poisons!

The Choco Taco wasn’t just an ice cream treat, it was a culinary miracle. A frozen Frankenstein’s monster of a dessert that dared to ask, “What if a taco… but ice cream?” And for nearly 40 years, the answer was always: “Yes. Absolutely.” It wasn’t fancy. It wasn’t gourmet. But the Choco Taco’s unique design was the ice cream sandwich we’d all been dreaming of.

On a long car ride or while pulling an all-nighter, few snacks hit like a good package of beef jerky. The tough, salty, sometimes spicy meat seems to last forever and never loses its kick. Once a necessity for our pioneer ancestors traveling across a tumultuous country, beef jerky remains a time-honored treat for anyone craving meat but not willing to cook it. So how did it become THE go-to snack of road trips throughout history?

It’s teal. It’s tropical. It’s the only soda that somehow tastes like both summer vacation and the floor of a Taco Bell at 1 a.m. For 20 years, Baja Blast has been more than just a drink — it’s a cult, a lifestyle, and one more thing for people to argue about on social media. But what is Baja Blast, really? How did it go from a limited-time Taco Bell exclusive to a year-round grocery store staple? And why does it have more spinoffs than CSI?

You hear about it on food blogs, restaurant advertisements and even in Jack Black’s Lava Chicken Song in A Minecraft Movie. Hot Chicken, forged in the fiery pits of Nashville’s hottest stovetops and available at any establishment that isn’t afraid to live life on the spicy side. Nashville Hot Chicken seemed to pop up overnight. So, where did it come from? And how did it take over our taste buds?

These days, when most people are hungry for a sandwich they head to places like Subway, Panera Bread, Jimmy John’s, Jersey Mike’s, or maybe even Firehouse. But once upon a time, not too long ago, the first name in sandwich shops was Blimpie. It even sounds delicious, like you’re going to get a whole lot of sammie for your buck. So what made this once-giant franchise go the way of the Hindenburg?

When Red Lobster first opened its doors in 1968, it promised a “harbor for seafood lovers,” so you’d think their most popular dish would be, well… seafood. If not specifically lobster. But as anyone who’s ever sampled from their menu can tell you, the best thing on it is -- by far -- the Cheddar Bay Biscuits.

Combos - those little pretzel rolls with an assortment of savory fillings - seemingly came out of nowhere to dominate road trip snack discussions forevermore. But despite being one of the undisputed kings of convenience store pit-stops for the past several decades, there’s surprisingly little information about Combos out there. So how did these humble tubes of dough and cheese come out of obscurity to change long car rides forever?

Once upon a time, McDonald’s looked like McDonald’s, Taco Bell looked like Taco Bell, and White Castle looked like a place everyone but college kids wanted to avoid. But at some point, those chains started ditching their own styles in favor of a minimalist design that’s so samey, you can barely tell one place from the other.

Vanilla Coke wasn’t just a soda, it was a revelation. A sugary slap to the taste buds that whispered, “Hey, what if your Coke was just a little fancier? A little creamier? A little more vannilla-y?” It tasted like someone poured a melted Coke float into a bottle and said, “You’re welcome, America.” And for a while it was available in every movie theater, vending machine, and corner store. Then all of a sudden, it was gone. What happened? Where did it go? Is it ever coming back?

Look, we may not want to admit it, but every one of us is guilty of doing something just because we saw it on television. But that doesn’t always mean doing suplexes in your living room or burning the house down - sometimes, that just means scarfing down your favorite characters’ favorite foods. From the Ninja Turtles and E.T., to Garfield and Homer Simpson, every major pop culture character has a major signature snack. But have these iconic snackers unknowingly convinced us all to become eaters of their favorite treats? Is our willpower truly so low?

Not to come off like one of those old people who think everything was better back in their day, but… everything was better back in our day; our day being the nineties. Movies were better, music was better, and food was better. Not necessarily better for you; it just tasted better. And if you’re wondering why that is, you’re in luck.

For decades, Sbarro was the beating heart of the mall food court — a brand so tied to suburban adolescence that it’s basically shorthand for “killing time before the movie starts.” But while it once reigned supreme as the undisputed king of the food court jungle, Sbarro eventually became a punchline: mocked for its quality, gutted by bankruptcies, and immortalized as the butt of an Office joke.

Open any fridge in America and you’ll find two things: a condiment that expired in 2012, and a mysterious Tupperware you’re too scared to open. But here’s the twist — sometimes those forgotten meals actually taste better the next day.

Historically speaking, when you think about fine dining, you probably think about kings, queens, lords, ladies, and all other manner of aristocrats. What you probably don’t think of is peasants. Yet, these days, so-called “peasant food” is increasingly considered fancy.

There have been some major soda brands that have delighted MILLIONS over the decades! Coke, Mountain Dew, 7Up!... Many have tried variations of tried and true beloved concoctions, but, let's be honest - NOBODY saw Pepsi Blue coming. What IS Pepsi Blue, and how did it come about? What does it taste like? maybe you have had one?

People love seafood! ...And Shrimp. LOTS of Shrimp - Garlic shrimp, breaded shrimp, dipping in shrimp cocktail or melted butter. Big restaurant chains recognized this, and many of the bigs such as Red Lobster started offering customers 'Endless shrimp' deals... What could go wrong? As time went on, they quickly found out - their financial well being got stuck in a downward spiral, with HEAVY losses. Were you ever able to part-take in endless shrimp deals while they were offered? How many do you think YOU ate?

Some people out there like to live life EXTREME. Some folks enjoy the thrill of leaping out of an airplane. Others climb mountains or brave the wilderness for no other reason than it’s dangerous. But some decide to have their danger served to them on a platter, maybe with a side of fries and some sauce for dipping. There’s nothing exciting about a cheeseburger, but what if that cheeseburger had a 1 in 10 chance of taking you out in the most painful way possible? Isn’t that worth even a little taste?

There are few items on the McDonald’s menu more classically Micky D’s than the six-piece chicken McNugget. But if you’re wondering why a place known for burgers and fries is always looking for the next big chicken sensation, then stick around.

With its one-of-a-kind, cardboard tube, metal bottom and plastic lid, Pringles are one of the most uniquely packaged snacks around. But it has to make you wonder: If that tube technology is really all that great, then why is Pringles the only chip makers that use it for their packaging?

It begins the way all great weekend stories do, a card check, a concrete warehouse floor, and a tiny paper cup of microwaved meatball skewered on a toothpick. This is Costco, and at Costco, the samples are free. But how does it work? Who pays for those little bites of joy? It’s a mystery, for sure.

Pizza. It’s the number one food on the planet. Ok, maybe not literally. But, we can all agree that it’s in every human being’s top five, right? Like, who can say 'No' to pizza? Seems simple enough until you remember that according to some, pizza comes in both New York style and Chicago style. Have you ever HAD Chicago Style 'Deep Dish pizza? Which is YOUR favorite style?

Remember after-work happy hours with neon green cocktails, the “flair” era, and a sandwich so over-the-top it came with powdered sugar and jam? Well… that was Bennigan’s — America’s mall-pub for Monte Cristos and two-for-ones. But today, you’d be hard pressed to find one.

Humans have been eating beef and game since the prehistoric era, so steak has been on the dinner menu since, well… pretty much forever. From open fires to fine dining, its evolution has been shaped by economics, politics and time. So if the question is: Where’s the beef? The answer is: We found it, and then some!

It’s 2 A-M. You’re starving. You shuffle into the kitchen like a zombie with one goal: vanilla yogurt. You find it. You cradle it. You whisper sweet nothings to it. But then… betrayal. It expired six days ago. Do you eat it? Will it kill you? Is this how your autopsy report begins?

Once upon a time, liquor was made and sold by people with names like Jim Beam and Jack Daniels. But these days, it’s more like The Rock and Ryan Reynolds. Yes, it suddenly feels like every celebrity you’ve ever heard of is out there pimping their own brand of booze.

The organic food business is driven by a desire for healthier meals, anxieties over the environment, and nostalgia for a time before chemical pesticides and fertilizers. But does organic food actually address any of those concerns? Or are we all just a bunch of suckers.

From Naples street food to Michelin-level creations, pizza’s been around longer than there have been dollar bills to spend on it. So how did we get to the point where some pizza still costs just a single bill, while others pay thousands and thousands for a single slice?

Food poisoning. Cross-contamination. Clandestine societies of hungry rats. These are just a few of the many pressing concerns shared by restaurant-staff and consumers alike. But, thanks to state-wide safety regulations, foodies can turn to restaurant grading systems to help decide where it’s safe to dine. But if A is excellent, and B takes a pass…What’s the risk in grabbing a bite from C?

Back in the nineteen-nineties, there was one drink that dared to ask: what if your beverage looked less like soda and more like a lava lamp? That drink was Orbitz — a short-lived, jelly-bead-filled curiosity that confused shoppers and terrified dentists. Have YOU ever had an Orbitz drink? Would you ever want to taste one of those ever again?

They look like bath bombs, taste like liquid candy, and hit like a heavyweight boxer. Whether you’ve downed one at a tailgate, or just stared at them in the liquor aisle, BuzzBallz have become impossible to ignore. But how did these party spheres take over the drinking world?

Given that he’s one of the most iconic movie stars of all time, it’s natural to wonder why Paul Newman’s name and likeness has long been used to sell bottles of salad dressing. Was he desperate for cash? Did he owe a favor to a friend? Was he being blackmailed by some evil salad dressing baron? Well, wonder no more.

Over a thousand years ago in Southeast Asia, people preserved fish by wrapping it in rice and letting it ferment. The Japanese then took that idea, refined it, and turned it into one of the most desired – and Instagram worthy – foods on the planet. But few realize quite how many varieties of sushi there really are!

A campfire and cereal box staple that goes back a heck of a lot longer than most people realize, marshmallows are soft, squishy and rich in delicious marsh. Or is it mallow? The truth is, while most people love the taste of marshmallows on their smores, sweet potato pie, or in their cereal, few know exactly what lurks within them.

It started as a laid-back anthem about wasting away on the beach with a salty rimmed cocktail. But Jimmy Buffett’s *Margaritaville* didn’t stay a song for long. It transformed into a sprawling empire including things like restaurants, resorts, and yes… even pickleball sponsorships.

Slice was an iconic brand… a soda for the ages! Or at least that's what Pepsi wanted their definitely-not-Sprite-clone to be. And for a hot minute, it worked. In the mid 1980’s, Slice was everywhere. It was everyone's go to drink of choice, until… it wasn’t. But once a brand name is well known, it never truly disappears. So, tell us, did you drink Slice in the '80s? Or how about the probiotic reboot? What did you think?

Hot Dog on a Stick is not just a sentence, but the name of an iconic establishment and also a description of an article of food. And yet, this once mighty delectable treat no longer dominates the economic hierarchies of mall food courts the way that it did in the 1980s.

Artificial intelligence has people everywhere wondering whose jobs are next — Writers? Developers? Maybe even yours. But one industry’s already feeling it: restaurants, where touchscreens and robot servers are quietly taking over. have YOU ever been served by a Robot? Have you taken your own order on a flatscreen at a fast food joint? Where Was it? Any hiccups in your worder?

In the abstract, food that’s prepared in the street might strike some as less than appetizing. But in reality, there’s something magical about street food. So in honor of all the hungry folks, standing in the road for the chance to buy something hot, fresh, and fast… What was some of the best street food you ever had? Where was it? Let us know in the comments!

With their sprawling secret menu, a cult-worthy following of fanatic foodies, and pure devotion to drive-thru craftsmanship, In-N-Out just might be the most infamous regional burger chain in America. But while these shake-slinging masters know exactly what a hamburger is all about, one fast-food essential is seriously slacking. Because when it comes to In-N-Out, does anyone actually want fries with that?

Picture a vivid green smear next to your sushi roll. The tiny kick-in-the-nose that makes your eyes water and your date question your life choices. Yes, we’re talking about wasabi. It’s one of the world’s most misunderstood condiments, but that stops right now. So, what are your thoughts on Wasabi? Have you had the real thing? Let us know in the comments!

Ah, Chick-fil-A, the only place where you can order chicken nuggets and waffle fries, with a heaping side of Christian guilt. They’re known for customer service, drive-thru lines rivaling In-And-Out, and some pretty universally beloved fried chicken, but if you’re wondering how a family-owned diner turned into a billion chicken empire, stick around. So, do you love Chic-Fil-A? Do you have issues with the company? Let us know in the comments where you stand!

From horrifying Hollywood cliches of disgusting cafeterias, to the slightly more palatable offerings at real-world commissaries, prison meals are a hot topic for the morbidly curious. But with so many terrible true-crime dining tales, one has to wonder: is prison food really that bad?

If you’re into online food trends, you’ve probably heard of Birria, the Mexican stew with an origin story that involves conquistadors, an army of goats, and an active volcano. But if you’re wondering what it really is about birria that’s got the internet so hyped up, stick around.

Attending an N-F-L game means dealing with attempts from the audience to break decibel measurements, long lines out of the parking lot, and overpriced beer. But there’s one thing that makes it all worth it. No, not the actual game, you can watch that from home. We are of course talking about the food.

In 2023, McDonald’s was looking for a way to stay relevant and capture the caffeine-crazy, TikTok-scrolling crowd who’d rather sip than chew. To that end, they launched a whole new coffee chain that looked like Starbucks after a U-F-O abduction. It was called CosMc’s, which was pretty appropriate because – it wasn’t long for this world.

Whether you’re taking care of a child with the sniffles or you’re just too lazy to cook for real, soup is a household staple. But it’s one largely dominated by a single name: Campbell’s. Only thanks to their brilliant marketing, you probably know it best as “Chunky.” Do You eat Campbell's Chunky? What do you think of Campbell's?

Have you ever looked at a Carl’s Jr. and a Hardee’s and thought, “Man those two franchises are a helluva lot alike”? Well… you’re not wrong. Those two chains are basically fast food siblings who share a face, but still insist they’re totally different people. Which have you eaten at? Do you prefer one over the other? Let us know in the comments!

Before energy drinks ruled the world, there was Jolt Cola. Double the caffeine, all of the sugar, and none of the subtlety. In the mid eighties, Jolt didn’t just quietly launch, it exploded onto shelves like a punch in the face. It sparked panic, rebellion, and some of the most chaotic Gen X stories told. So, let us know in the comments - Did you ever drink a Jolt Cola?

For those lucky enough to live in a world where no candy is illegal, Kinder Surprise Eggs are a popular treat for chocolate lovers, toy collectors and egg aficionados alike. But in the U-S… they’re contraband. So why does everyone else get to chow down on this toy dispensing candy while Americans are left out?

You know that moment in a mall when you swear you’re just “cutting through” to get to something else, but then it hits you — the smell. A warm, sweet, buttery cloud that hovers like a cartoon hand beckoning you toward your fate. You weren’t hungry. You weren’t looking for dessert. And yet… resistance is futile! Have you ever eaten at Cinnabon? Give us YOUR thoughts in the comments!

In the world of fast food redheads, there’s Ronald McDonald, sometimes The Burger King – depending on which version you’re looking at – and there’s Wendy.And for decades, Wendy’s held their own as the number three burger chain in the United States. But the times, they may be a-changing.

When most people think of soda they think of things like Coke, Pepsi, Sprite and maybe some kind of Root Beer or Orange. What they don’t usually think of, is the Incas. Unless you’re talking about the people of Peru, who think of a local brand that did the impossible. So, have YOU ever had the pleasure of drinking this elusive soda? Where did you find it? Let us know in the comments!

In the high-stakes world of pizza, fast delivery times and better ingredients are always important, but the real way to grow your business is through new idea. And the biggest innovation in pizza since pre-sliced pepperoni is definitely the stuffed crust. But who really is responsible for the creation of this delectable delicacy?

Food dye: once just a tool for cute elementary-school experiments, is now a surprising fixture in your everyday food. Though its recently been thrown into the spotlight, societies have been dying food and drink since the ancient Egyptian times (of not longer!). Today we look deep into dyes, why all the concern, and what is on the horizon for these ubiquitous dyes we all ingest! What do you think about food dyes?

If you’ve ever eaten a Milano cookie and thought, “This seems too elegant to have been invented on purpose…” Congratulations. You’re right. The Pepperidge Farm Milano is one of history’s greatest culinary whoopsies, right up there with the chocolate chip cookie!have you ever had Milano Cookies? Which is your favorite?

As a people, we have made some pretty great technological strides. The wheel, the printing press, the camera – all of them a great benefit to the entire human race. One that maybe doesn’t get spoken about enough though, is canned food. And much like the aforementioned advances, we’ve done some pretty strange stuff with it. What's the strangest thing you have ever seen canned? What is your favorite?

They look like cheese. They smell like cheese. They kind of look like little slices of cheese. But if you’ve ever stared at a Cheez-It mid-snack and wondered what’s actually inside that tiny orange square — you’re not alone.What do you think about these little orange squares? Do you like a particular type of Cheez-It?

Oreo cookies might just be the most consistently snackable treat in the junk food aisle. But after years of crumbling the competition with that fluffy, teeth-numbingly tasty cream, Oreo decided to get weird with it. Have you ever tried any of the wackiest flavors? If so, which was it?

In the world of fast food redheads, there’s Ronald McDonald, sometimes The Burger King – depending on which version you’re looking at – and there’s Wendy. And for decades, Wendy’s held their own as the number three burger chain in the United States. But the times, they may be a-changing. What do you think about Wendy's?

There’s something strangely comforting about the sound of bacon sizzling in a pan. It’s not just cooking; it’s a little morning performance, a tiny ritual that tells your stomach the day has begun. But as familiar as that moment feels, the truth is bacon isn’t just for the first meal of the day anymore. When d o YOU eat your bacon? What's your favorite way to consume bacon?

Anthony Bourdain didn’t just eat food — he used it to tell stories about power, culture, class, identity, and who really gets a seat at the table. Along the way, he developed some strong — and sometimes wildly unpopular — opinions about what people eat, how they eat, and why most of them are doing it wrong.

There are some things in life people have strong opinions about, including: religion, politics, and – apparently – Arby’s. For whatever reason, the world has drawn battle lines over whether the franchise is under-appreciated or if it should be shot into space, never to return. So, what do YOU think of Arby's? Have you ever eaten at one?

Have you ever looked at a bottle of A-1 sauce and thought, “What…are you?” Steak’s sidekick? Ketchup’s fancy cousin? A Victorian condiment that somehow survived the Industrial Revolution? Well, if so… you’re far from alone. But even though most people don’t know exactly what A-1 is, every steak lover has an opinion on it.

There are plenty of wild fast-food mashups — but only one that feels like it was dreamed up at 2 a.m. in a dorm room and then somehow made a billion dollars. Yes, the Doritos Locos Taco was a pretty inspiring success story. At least, it was if the idea wasn’t stolen. But… was it?

Once upon a time, the Caribbean was ruled by pirates cool enough to earn themselves a ride at Disneyland and a billion dollar movie franchise. But those movies don’t go into a lot of detail about what those pirates ate, or what they did when the food ran out.

You’d think taking a food known for being cheap and casual and trying to convince people it was haute cuisine would be a losing business strategy. But it was a winner for California Pizza Kitchen. Until it wasn’t.

When it comes to fish sticks, few brands have weathered more storms than Gorton’s. But even those who brave the waves of the supermarket for them might be wondering: “What the fish are actually in these things?” So tell us, do you like fish sticks? Was it a staple growing up? Which was your favorite brand?

Most foods are things you eat. Shake ’N Bake was something you did. It wasn’t just dinner, it was a ritual involving a plastic bag, raw chicken, and the kind of aggressive shaking that felt oddly therapeutic. Until… it wasn’t. So did you have Shake 'N Bake growing up? DId you help in that dinner prep?

For decades, IHOP was the place you went when you wanted pancakes, coffee, and maybe to make a few questionable life choices at 2 a.m. But behind the blue roofs and bottomless coffee is a story that starts with nuclear panic… and peaks with one of the internet’s most infamous marketing stunts. What do you think of this stunt? Did you ever eat at IHOB? How was the burger?

Once upon a time, someone tasted butter… and said, “what if this, but cheaper?”. That question birthed margarine, sparked lawsuits, fueled dairy conspiracies, and eventually led to one of the most iconic food names of the twentieth century — a product that’s almost butter, almost margarine, and absolutely confusing.

Other than a certain cartoon detective, there’s nowhere we love gadgets more than in our kitchens… and perhaps no one is more responsible for those tools than Ron Popeil. He’s the ever-smilling pitchman whose specialized doohickeys turned the television infomercial from a programming afterthought into a cultural institution.

7 Brew enters the chat as the newest player trying to muscle its way into the crowded American caffeine coliseum. In just a few short years, the brand has positioned itself as a fast-rising, hyper-energetic alternative to Starbucks. Despite being relatively young, 7 Brew has already built a reputation for speed, personality, and a menu that essentially says, “We do what we do well, and then THAT’S IT.”

Costco is a magical place. You walk in for paper towels, and walk out with a kayak, a ten-pound bag of quinoa, and a heaping plate of panic over where you’re going to store it all. But no matter what you buy, chances are it has one familiar name on it: Kirkland Signature. People trust it. Like… deeply. Religiously even. Possibly more than they trust some relatives! Do You buy Kirkland products? If so, what do you think about em?

Ever notice how airplane food tastes… weird? You board the plane starving, open that tiny tray table meal, take one bite, and suddenly wonder if your taste buds stayed back at the airport gate. Believe it or not, it’s not just the airline food quality… and it’s not just you. There’s actually a scientific reason airplane food tastes different at 35,000 feet. From cabin pressure, to dry air, flying can seriously mess with how your brain tastes food. So what’s the deal with airline meals, and why do they taste so bland in the sky? Have you ever had airplane food that was actually good? What airline was it, and what did you eat?

For most of the world, chili is thick, spicy, and eaten with a spoon. But in Cincinnati, they looked at that tradition and thought: What if we poured it over spaghetti, added cinnamon, and built an entire food culture around it? Welcome to the strange and legendary world of Cincinnati chili—a uniquely Midwestern dish made famous by restaurants like Skyline Chili. Instead of a bowl, it’s served on a plate of spaghetti and topped with towering piles of shredded cheese, onions, and beans in carefully ordered combinations known as “3-ways,” “4-ways,” and “5-ways.”

The McDonald’s Snack Wrap was the perfect middle ground between a “lighter” fast food option and the kind of late-night creation you’d expect after a Jay and Silent Bob movie marathon. Small, cheap, and ridiculously addictive, it quickly became one of the most beloved items on the McDonald’s menu. The original McDonald’s Snack Wrap packed big flavor into a soft flour tortilla: crisp lettuce, shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, your choice of sauces, and most importantly a juicy strip of chicken. That chicken came straight from the same legendary supply used for the fan-favorite McDonald’s Chicken Selects, which were hugely popular at the time. So how did one of the most popular McDonald’s menu items end up disappearing from restaurants?

Before the Coca-Cola vs. Pepsi cola wars took over the world, another soda was already making history. On Colombia’s Caribbean coast, a mysterious bright pink drink was bubbling into existence decades before the big soda brands battled for dominance — and it’s still popular today. Today on Weird History Food, we dive into the forgotten origins of Colombia’s iconic pink soda Kola Roman, including the surprising story behind its invention, and how it survived the global takeover of the cola giants. From regional tradition to cult favorite, this unusual soft drink proves that the history of soda is stranger — and sweeter — than you might think! So tell us in the comments - have you ever had Kola Roman? What do you think of it? If you love food history, unusual drinks, and forgotten food stories, hit subscribe for more episodes of Weird History Food.

Before meal kits, before DoorDash, and long before cheap grocery store rotisserie chickens, Boston Market was a real presence. It promised comfort food classics—like Thanksgiving dinner any day of the week—without the cooking, cleanup, or family drama! At its peak, this fast-casual chain was booming, redefining how Americans ate homestyle meals on the go. But almost as quickly as it rose, Boston Market began to collapse. So what went wrong? From rapid expansion and massive debt to changing food trends and fierce competition, this is the strange rise and fall of one of America’s most iconic comfort food chains.

Hawaiian Punch has been around forever—or at least it feels that way. Bright red, ultra-sweet, and somehow tasting like “fruit” without being tied to any one fruit, it’s a drink that defined childhood for millions. But what is Hawaiian Punch, really? And where did it come from? Today on Weird History, we dive into the surprising origins of Hawaiian Punch: H it became a lunchroom staple, and what’s actually behind that iconic flavor. From its unexpected beginnings, to its rise as a sugary pop culture legend, this is the story you never knew you needed about a drink you probably never questioned. Did you ever drink this magical concoction? Let us know in the comments!

You think V8 is healthy… but is it really? Picture this: you’re in the grocery store, determined to make better choices. You skip the soda, avoid sugary sports drinks, and reach for something that feels responsible: V8. Packed with vegetables, it has to be good for you… right? Well… not so fast. In this episode of Weird History, we dig into the surprising origins of V8, the truth behind its “healthy” reputation, and the hidden details most people never question. From clever marketing to nutritional gray areas, the story of this iconic drink is a lot more complicated than it seems. Is V8 actually good for you? Or is that just really good branding?

Pizza is cheap, comforting, and available everywhere… or at least it used to be. But recently, something strange has been happening. America’s favorite food seems to be slowly fading away, and after you hear the reasons why, you may never look at a slice the same way again. From rising costs to changing tastes, this episode of Weird History Food takes a deep dive into the surprising truth behind pizza’s quiet decline and what it reveals about how America eats today.

While McDonald’s, Burger King, and Wendy’s dominate the fast-food burger world, Jack in the Box has long been carving out a surprising legacy of its own. From its creepy clown mascot to the iconic Jumbo Jack, Jack in the Box seemingly has everything it needs to compete at the top... but lately, things haven't been going so well for Jack. In this episode of Weird History, we dive into the strange rise and fall of one of America’s most unique and unforgettable fast food chains.

Think you can handle Da’ Bomb? Well, think again! The infamous #8 hot sauce from Hot Ones is so incredibly spicy it’s manufacturer warns people against eating it straight. So why does Hot Ones host Sean Evans have celebrities like Sabrina Carpenter taking it head-on? In this episode of Weird History Food, we give you a glimpse of the shocking truth behind one of the most feared and misunderstood hot sauces on YouTube, discuss how it became a viral challenge, and try to figure out why famous people keep letting it destroy their taste buds.

In the late 1990s, Americans started turning away from sugary soda and embracing what seemed like a healthier alternative: bottled water. Sensing the massive shift in consumer habits, Coca-Cola jumped into the booming market in 1999 with Dasani. But what followed wasn’t so much a success story as it was a branding disaster. From its controversial sourcing to its unusual taste, Dasani triggered a public backlash and quickly became one of the most criticized bottled water brands ever. So how did one of the world’s biggest companies get it so wrong? And why do people still talk about Dasani today?

Ever wondered why amazing new innovations are always referred to as “the greatest thing since sliced bread”? In this Weird History deep dive, we uncover the surprising origin story behind sliced bread, discuss how it revolutionized everyday life and explain why it became the gold standard for innovation. From the disaster that forced its inventor to invent it twice, to the rise of Wonder Bread, to the World War 2 era ban that took sliced bread off supermarket shelves, this is the strange, fascinating story of how a simple loaf changed the world forever.

Worcestershire sauce: It's salty, tangy, funky, fishy and almost impossible to spell or pronounce. But while you’ve almost certainly tasted it... do you actually know what’s in it? One of the oldest bottled sauces in America, this mysterious condiment turns up everywhere from burgers to Bloody Marys and it has a history that’s far stranger than you’d expect. So on this episode of Weird History Food, we're going to try and answer the questions: What is Worcestershire sauce and how did it become a kitchen staple? And by the time we're done, we guarantee you’ll never look at that bottle the same way again.

From the U-K's "Dominic's Pizza" to Iran's "Pizza Hat" to China's "7-12", knock off fast food places are far more common than most Americans realize. But the strange Burger King that briefly existed on the south side of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania wasn't just an imitation with a deceptively similar name, it was an outright counterfeit. The building said Burger King, the uniforms said Burger King, and so did the receipts, but when employees started telling customers they were out of items like Whoppers, and food started being served in plain brown lunch bags and dixie cups, locals began to realize that something was up. So on this episode of Weird History Food, we're going to get to the bottom of what was going on at the infamous rogue Burger King of Pittsburgh.

The Old Bay Filet-O-Fish was a simple twist on a classic McDonald’s sandwich. The limited-time menu item, which featured the iconic Filet-O-Fish topped with bold Old Bay-seasoned tartar sauce, exploded in popularity, became an overnight fan obsession, and then vanished just as quickly. So why did McDonald’s pull the Old Bay Filet-O-Fish? Was it a supply issue, a marketing experiment, or something else entirely? And of course, the biggest question of all: will it ever come back? In this episode of Weird History, we break down the meteoric rise and mysterious disappearance of one of McDonald’s most talked-about limited releases, explore the fan reaction, and uncover what really happened to the Old Bay Filet-O-Fish.

With prices constantly on the rise, everybody's on the lookout for a good, cheap meal, and while Costco’s famous $1.50 hot dog combo has a cult following… Sam’s Club may be quietly undercutting them. So in this episode of Weird History, we're pitting the two warehouse superstore food courts against each other to determine whose meal is the better deal. Check out our breakdown and then jump into the comments and let us know which food court wins the war for your wallet.

Minute Maid frozen orange juice is a grocery store classic with a surprising history. A freezer aisle staple since the late 1940s, frozen orange juice concentrate has long been helping families get their daily dose of vitamin C quickly and affordably. But recently, Minute Maid has chosen to discontinue the product leaving loyal customers wondering... why? In this episode of Weird History, we dive into the fascinating story behind frozen orange juice, from its unexpected origins, to its cultural impact, to the reasons it may not be as popular today.

Wendy’s sells over 83 MILLION servings of chili every year; enough to fill more than eight Olympic-sized swimming pools. But the real story isn’t how much they sell… it’s what’s in it. On this episode of Weird History Food, we're taking a look at the surprisingly clever fast food secret behind Wendy's chili and how Dave Thomas figured out he could turn his garbage into his secret weapon.

The idea that someone's personality can be judged solely by what condiments they put on their food sounds ridiculous, but one mustard brand actually convinced an entire nation it was possible… and people bought into it. But how did a simple condiment reshape identity, class, and culture? And why did it work so well? In this episode of Weird History, we dive into the surprisingly effective marketing campaign and strange psychology that turned Grey Poupon Dijon Mustard into an unlikely status symbol.

As a people, we have made some pretty great technological strides like the wheel, the printing press, and the camera. One that maybe doesn’t get spoken about enough though, is canned food. And much like the aforementioned advances, we’ve done some pretty strange stuff with it.

In February of 2026, the grandson of H.B. Reese, founder of Reese's Candy Company, publicly criticized Hershey’s, accusing the company of replacing core ingredients with cheaper substitutes; a claim Hershey's didn't even bother to deny. In this episode of Weird History, we dig into the growing controversy over alleged ingredient changes in popular chocolate bars. Are beloved sweets being quietly downgraded? From recipe shifts to consumer backlash, here’s what’s really going on behind the wrappers.

For decades, Kentucky Fried Chicken dominated the fast food scene with the top secret fried chicken recipe created by its larger-than-life founder, Colonel Harlan Sanders. But more recently, KFC has struggled to keep people interested in what it's selling. In this episode of Weird History Food, we dig through the corporate battles, declining quality, and broken branding to figure out exactly how one of America’s most beloved restaurant chains lost its way.

To Canadians, Tim Hortons is more than a coffee shop; it's a symbol of Canada itself. From hockey culture to political campaigns, “Timmies” was seemingly everywhere. But behind the double-doubles and Timbits, the company has found itself facing controversy, consumer complaints about declining quality, angry franchise owners, and a major identity crisis. In this episode of Weird History Food, we head north to take a good hard look at everything that's gone wrong for Tim Hortons.

Thanks to a viral video showing off his unusually stylish meat slicing technique and now legendary salt sprinkle, the Turkish butcher and restauranteur Nusret Gökçe shot to fame as "Salt Bae." But thanks to a series of mistakes, missteps, and plain old bad decisions, the internet's love affair with Gökçe proved short-lived. In this episode of Weird History Food, we're peeling back the hype to take a look at the bizarre rise and fall of the world’s most dramatic chef.

Orange soda is bright, bubbly, and more popular than you'd think. But which one is the sweetest? Or the fizziest? And why are they all the exact same orange as a traffic cone? In this episode of Weird History Food we’re ranking the wild world of orange soda, from Fanta to Sunkist to Crush, to find out which one truly reigns supreme. What's your favorite orange soda? Jump into the comments and let us know.

In the state of Texas, Whataburger is more than a regional fast food chain, it's a beloved institution that people defend like a member of the family. But what exactly is it about this seemingly run of the mill burger joint that inspired such cult-like devotion? In this episode of Weird History Food, we peek behind the orange-and-white stripes to figure out how Whataburger survived viral scandals, fierce competition, and backlash over major corporate changes to become one of America’s most beloved regional burger chains.

Originally launched as a Ghostbusters-themed Hi-C drink in the 1980s, Ecto Cooler became one of the most beloved kids beverages of all time. It even survived for a while after the Ghostbusters franchise faded away. Nonetheless, Hi-C eventually discontinued it and that should’ve been the end... but it wasn't. On this episode of Weird History Food, we're taking a look at how Ecto Cooler became a pop culture legend that fans kept bringing back from the dead.

Werther’s Original candies are known for their rich caramel flavor, their wholesome ingredients and their gold wrappers. But what they're most famous for is being the unofficial candy of senior citizens everywhere. In this episode of Weird History Food, we explain how Werther’s Originals became the ultimate “grandparent candy,” and examine whether that association turned out to be a good thing or a bad thing in the long run.

From prehistoric battles to today's high-tech military conflicts, war has shaped human civilization for thousands of years. But one challenge has never changed: soldiers need food. Long before modern MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat), armies relied on everything from dried meat and hardtack to canned rations designed to survive the harshest battlefields. Some of those meals were barely edible, while others became surprisingly beloved by the troops who relied on them. In this episode of Weird History, we're tracing the fascinating evolution of military rations from the through the ages. What did George Washington's soldiers eat? How did armies feed millions of soldiers during world wars? And are modern military rations actually tastier than their reputation suggests?

Pepperidge Farm's Goldfish have been on supermarket shelves since 1963, so you might think people would be tired of them, but that doesn't seem to be the case. On the contrary, Goldfish are now the fastest growing cracker brand in the United States. In this episode of Weird History Food we take a look at how one woman's quest to find snacks her son could safely eat led to one of the most iconic crackers in history, and the simple, yet clever strategy Pepperidge Farm has used to keep Goldfish so popular generation after generation.

A grocery store where you have to pay to use a shopping cart. No familiar brands. No background music. And products with names that seem impossible to pronounce. It sounds like a grocery store designed by aliens, but it's actually Aldi, the discount supermarket that grew from a small German family business into one -- or actually two -- of the most successful and beloved grocery chains in the world. On this episode of Weird History Food we're taking a look at how a store that breaks almost every rule of modern grocery shopping became a global retail phenomenon. From its unusual shopping carts and private-label products to its ruthless cost-cutting strategies and billion-dollar success story, this is the weird history of Aldi.

The merger of Checkers and Rally’s was supposed to create a fast-food powerhouse. But instead... it nearly destroyed both brands. On this episode of Weird History Food From we're looking at the bizarre story of Checkers and Rally’s and how the combined franchises went from bankruptcy scares to a drive-thru success.