Iowan Invents Rice Krispies Treats: Iowa Time Machine September 24, 1903

Iowa Time Machine ⏰: On September 24, 1903, Rice Krispies Treats inventor Mildred Day was born. A graduate of Iowa State, Day innovated throughout a long career at Kellogg’s, Pillsbury, and in culinary publishing.

Born in Durham (Marion County), Herriet Mildred Ghrist Day moved to Hardin County (town: Quebec) with her family. During adolescence, her family moved to Ames, where her father worked as a custodial worker at Iowa State. Day enrolled at the college and excelled in the Home Economics program while also working as a research assistant for a geneticist.

After graduation, Kellogg’s hired Day. Working as a test cook in the company’s kitchen, Day and co-worker Malitta Jense came up with the idea for Rice Krispies Treats in 1939. Day drew inspiration from popcorn balls sold at county fairs, and the first test for the product came at a Campfire Girls meeting. The ‘marshmallow squares' proved a big hit, and soon Kellogg’s rolled out the tasty treat.

Day also allegedly served the first airline meal while cooking for a group of publishers on a flight. After moving to Pillsbury, Day focused on creating clear, easy-to-use cookbooks. Day eventually left Pillsbury but continued to publish through Meredith and other culinary magazines for the rest of her life. #Iowa #OTD #History #Food #Treats