In 1964, consumers suddenly had two pre-packed fruit-filled breakfast pastries designed to be heated in a pop-up toaster. They were called Pop Tarts (made by Kellogg’s) and Toast 'em Pop-Ups (made by Post). You might be surprised to learn that the original names for these products were Kellogg's Fruit Scones and Post Country Squares. The reason they were introduced at the same time was, of course, the longstanding rivalry between the two cereal companies (which we've covered in both text and video), but also due to an important innovation in packaging -developed by the dog food industry!
We all know who won that battle, as pop tarts became a generic term for toaster pastries. Jerry Seinfeld stars in a new Netflix movie titled Unfrosted about the origin of Pop Tarts debuting next month. Before you see the comedy, read the real story behind the battle of the toaster pastries at Mental Floss.
(Image credit: Evan-Amos)
