The Surprising Origins of Kellogg’s Corn Flakes: From Enema Bags to Breakfast Staple

When you pour yourself a bowl of Kellogg’s Corn Flakes, you’re not just enjoying a breakfast staple; you’re partaking in a piece of history. The origins of this popular cereal are surprisingly linked to a health movement in the late 19th century, which included the use of enema bags. While it’s not accurate to say that Corn Flakes were ever considered an ingredient in enema bags, the creation of this cereal was indeed influenced by a broader health philosophy that promoted the use of enemas. Let’s delve into the fascinating history of Kellogg’s Corn Flakes.

The Health Philosophy of John Harvey Kellogg

John Harvey Kellogg, the co-creator of Corn Flakes, was a physician and health reformer in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He ran the Battle Creek Sanitarium in Michigan, where he promoted a holistic approach to health that included a vegetarian diet, regular exercise, and yes, the use of enemas. Kellogg believed that many health problems were caused by poor diet and constipation, and he advocated for regular bowel movements to maintain good health.

The Creation of Corn Flakes

As part of his health philosophy, Kellogg sought to create a breakfast food that would be easy to digest and promote regular bowel movements. He and his brother, Will Keith Kellogg, experimented with different grains and cooking methods until they stumbled upon the process that created Corn Flakes. The cereal was initially served to patients at the sanitarium before it was marketed to the general public.

From Sanitarium to Supermarket

While John Harvey Kellogg was more interested in promoting health, his brother Will saw the commercial potential of Corn Flakes. He founded the Kellogg Company in 1906 and began mass-producing and marketing the cereal. The product was a hit, and it laid the foundation for the breakfast cereal industry as we know it today.

Conclusion

So, while it’s not accurate to say that Corn Flakes were ever considered an ingredient in enema bags, the creation of this cereal was indeed influenced by a broader health philosophy that included the use of enemas. Today, Kellogg’s Corn Flakes are enjoyed by millions of people around the world, a testament to the enduring appeal of this simple, wholesome cereal.

References

• Howard Markel, “The Kelloggs: The Battling Brothers of Battle Creek”, Pantheon, 2017.
• John Harvey Kellogg, “The Simple Life in a Nutshell”, Good Health Publishing Company, 1903.