National Cereal Day
March 7th is the day we pour the love (and milk) for National Cereal Day! Celebrated by breakfast enthusiasts everywhere, this day honors the iconic bowl of crunch that kickstarts our mornings.
It was initiated to spotlight the cereal industry's journey, starting with pioneers like Dr. John Harvey Kellogg. So, grab a spoon and let’s celebrate the timeless joy of cereal!
Tracing the History of Cereal: A Weird and Fascinating Story
The story of cereal begins with James Caleb Jackson in the mid-19th century. Believing that poor digestion was the root of health problems, Jackson invented “Granula,” the first dry breakfast cereal, at his New York sanatorium.
His creation inspired Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, a physician and devout Seventh-Day Adventist, who believed a bland diet could combat indigestion and even prevent masturbation. Kellogg ran a renowned sanatorium in Battle Creek, Michigan, where he developed his own version of Granula. After a legal challenge from Jackson over the name "Granula," Kellogg renamed his version "Granola."
In a twist of fate, an accident with fermenting dough led Kellogg and his brother Will to invent cornflakes. However, the brothers disagreed on adding sugar to the recipe. Will bought the rights, sweetened the flakes, and launched the Kellogg’s company in 1906.
Interesting Cereal Facts You Should Know
- The process of puffing or flaking grains (such as puffed rice or corn flakes) was invented in the 1900s and allowed cereal to become a quick and easy breakfast option.
- Cereal consumption varies widely around the world. For example, in countries like India and China, rice is a dominant cereal grain, while in the U.S., wheat and corn are more prevalent.
- Cereal grains are highly versatile and can be stored for long periods without spoiling. When kept in a cool, dry place, grains like rice and oats can last for several years.
- Some cereal crops, such as quinoa and millet, are considered more sustainable because they require less water and fewer pesticides than other grains.
- Did you know that Barley is one of the main ingredients in beer production?
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