In the 1930s, amidst the agricultural heartland of Wisconsin, the Flakall Company was pioneering a novel approach to animal feed production. Specializing in processing grain into small, digestible pieces, the company's method involved a unique flaking machine designed to enhance the feed's nutritional value.
It was during this era that Edward Wilson, a keen-eyed employee of Flakall, made a serendipitous observation. While watching cornmeal being processed through the flaking machine, Wilson noticed how the combination of moisture and heat transformed the cornmeal into puffy, ribbon-like formations upon exiting the machine. This accidental discovery would prove to be the spark of a culinary revolution.
Taking some of these puffy ribbons home, Wilson experimented with adding oil and flavorings. The result? A delectable and addictive snack we now know as cheese curls.
In 1939, Wilson applied for a patent for his creation, which was subsequently commercialized in 1946 under the name "Korn Kurls" by the Adams Corporation—an entity formed by Flakall's founder and his sons. The Adams Corporation, later acquired by Beatrice Foods, propelled the cheese puff into mainstream popularity.
Despite the trademark for "CheeWees" being lost due to corporate transitions, the Elmer family's legacy endured. Elmer's Fine Foods continued to produce the iconic snack, ultimately reclaiming the trademark in 1993, reaffirming the enduring connection between this beloved treat and its New Orleans roots.
Today, cheese puffs stand as a testament to the spirit of American creativity, transforming from humble beginnings as animal feed into a snack enjoyed by millions worldwide. Whether it's the nostalgic crunch of Korn Kurls or the spirited heritage of CheeWees, the history of cheese puffs remains a delightful tale of culinary evolution and entrepreneurial tenacity.
The Evolution of Cheese Puffs: From Animal Feed to Snack Phenomenon
