Plot Synopsis

MESSY HISTORY OF AMERICAN FOOD is a half-hour documentary series that reveals the often-messy history of some of America's most iconic foods. The six-episode series premieres 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 spotlights 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. Episodes include:

"The Messy History of Cereal" (Wednesday, May 11, 2022) looks 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.

"The Messy History of Burgers" (Wednesday, May 11, 2022) goes 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.

"The Messy History of Soda" (Wednesday, May 18, 2022) 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.

"The Messy History of Bread" (Wednesday, May 18, 2022) looks at the rich and storied evolution of a classic American staple, bread.

"The Messy History of Wings" (Wednesday, May 25, 2022) reveals the truth behind the origin of chicken wings, an American institution for decades, including tales of recipe appropriation which persist through today.

"The Messy History of Chocolate" (Wednesday, May 25, 2022) chronicles the history of a sweet treat that can sometimes leave a bitter aftertaste -- from the conquistadors and beyond, the story of chocolate is messy.