When it comes to timeless pantry staples, Kraft’s Mac & Cheese often emerges as the crowned champion. But how much do you truly know about this iconic blue box? Dive into the sensational untold reality behind Kraft’s Mac & Cheese, and prepare to be amazed!
1. The Dawn of Mac & Cheese
Our journey starts in 1937. While Kraft did not invent the wheel (or mac and cheese), they did revolutionize the dish. With an ingenious idea of boxing the pasta with processed cheese, they made it accessible to all, especially during challenging times like the Great Depression and World War II. Their offering was not just about food; it was hope, comfort, and convenience in a box. Records indicate that it was such a hit, 9 million boxes were sold in the debut year itself!
The blue box’s appeal extended beyond American borders. Believe it or not, Canadians have a penchant for this treat, consuming more of it annually than Americans. Now that’s a mac and cheese diplomacy!
2. World War II and Mac & Cheese
During World War II, when resources were scant, Kraft’s Mac & Cheese became the unsung hero. With an affordable price tag and the ability to satiate hunger efficiently, the dish became immensely popular. In fact, a staggering 50 million boxes were sold in 1943 alone. It was more than just food; it was a beacon of sustenance during dark times.
The shelf life of 10 months meant that the blue box could survive without refrigeration. This feature made it a treasure during the Great Depression, a time when not everyone had access to refrigerators. Kraft’s Mac & Cheese was not only convenient but also provided meat-free meals during the rationing in World War II.
3. The Science of Processed Cheese
What’s in that cheese, you wonder? The innovation of processed cheese was primarily to combat the issue of cheese spoilage. In 1916, James L. Kraft was awarded the first patent for creating processed cheese. The process involved heating cheddar cheese scraps to exterminate bacteria, followed by the addition of sodium phosphate as an emulsifier. This not only extended the cheese’s shelf life but also paved the way for the iconic mac and cheese combination.
But Kraft’s genius didn’t stop there. The processed cheese, apart from finding its way into the blue box, offered various culinary applications. From being a seasoning to a creamy add-on, it has served many palates globally.
4. Daily Love for the Blue Box
Even today, decades after its introduction, the love for Kraft’s Mac & Cheese hasn’t diminished. Every single day, roughly a million boxes fly off the shelves. That’s a whopping 365 million boxes a year! This number soared even higher during the COVID-19 pandemic as more people found solace in comfort food. Kraft smartly adapted, adding “breakfast” to its packaging labels, signifying its versatility and the ever-changing meal habits of its consumers.
Moreover, the dish’s adaptability ensures that it’s not just confined to lunch or dinner. It’s an anytime meal, resonating with millions worldwide.
5. Evolution and Controversies
Like any other product, Kraft’s Mac & Cheese hasn’t been without its share of controversies. Consumer demand for natural ingredients led Kraft to eliminate artificial dyes and flavors in 2015. While the taste remained consistent, the iconic neon-orange hue underwent a transformation. Amid the ever-evolving food industry, the brand has tried to stay relevant by introducing a plethora of variations, from gluten-free versions to organic choices and spicy variations.
From its humble beginnings during the Great Depression to becoming an essential pantry staple, Kraft’s Mac & Cheese has witnessed and adapted to multiple eras. It’s more than just a box of pasta and cheese; it’s a symbol of comfort, resilience, and adaptability, standing the test of time.
