Get the Surprising and Sometimes Jawdropping 411 on Classic Dishes with New Series “Messy History of American Food”

Dive mouth-first into the often-messy history of some of America’s most iconic foods with a wild ride that’s hilarious, surprising, and informational in the new series, Messy History of American Food, premiering Wednesday, May 11th exclusively on discovery+. The six-episode series will premiere two new episodes a week as it shines a light on some of the messiest origin stories of American food and food culture out there. Each episode will spotlight one classic American food with a time-traveling look back at its history and evolution, with experts including food scientists, marketing experts, and more, weighing in and sharing fascinating and, at times, shocking background and details. From the story behind burgers to the truth behind chicken wings and the evolution of bread and more, get ready to dig into the delicious new series, Messy History of American Food.

In the premiere episodes on Wednesday, May 11th, dig into “The Messy History of Cereal” with a look at America’s go-to breakfast which has withstood the test of time, but the story of cereal is anything but dry with its shockingly salacious origins. Then, it’s a deep dive into “The Messy History of Burgers,” going behind the scenes of this cornerstone of American food culture in which women’s rights and a fast-food burger chain have played pivotal roles in its evolution. On Wednesday, May 18th don’t miss “The Messy History of Soda,” which takes a look at this beloved fizzy beverage that initially boasted some questionable ingredients such as cocaine and lithium and was touted to have medicinal properties. Next, it is a look at the rich and storied evolution of a classic American staple, bread, in “The Messy History of Bread.” On Wednesday, May 25th, “The Messy History of Wings” reveals the truth behind the origin of chicken wings, an American institution for decades, including tales of recipe appropriation which persist through today. Finally, it is a look at the “The Messy History of Chocolate” a sweet treat that can sometimes leave a bitter aftertaste, from the conquistadors and beyond, the story of chocolate is messy.

Messy History of American Food is produced for discovery+ by Thrillist and Group Nine Studios.