The Mid Century Vault

Currently Playing: 085 Pringles: An "Only In The 20th Century" Story

In 1968, the American snack aisle changed forever. The simple bags of fried potato slices got pushed to the side by "cardboard cylinders" containing mathematically perfect shapes. But were they even potato chips? In this episode of The Mid-Century Vault, Philip Mershon uncovers the industrial saga of Pringles. From the laboratory of Procter & Gamble to the desk of the FDA, we explore how a chemist named Fredric Baur turned a "hyperbolic paraboloid" into a global phenomenon. What we’re opening up in the Vault today: The math behind the chip's unique shape: z = \frac{x^2}{a^2} - \frac{y^2}{b^2} 42% Potato: What makes up the other 58% of a Pringle? The FDA Showdown: Why "Newfangled Potato Chips" became "Potato Crisps" overnight. The Ultimate Tribute: The story of the man who was buried in a Pringles can. COMMUNITY QUESTION: Are you a Traditionalist (give me real grease and salt!) or a Pringles Enthusiast? SUPPORT MY WORK:If you love mid-century history, consider subscribing and hitting the bell! ☕ Buy Me a Coffee: https://coff.ee/philipmershon ⭐ Super Thanks: You can send me a tip using the heart button with the $ in the center. It's below the video! #pringles #FoodHistory #MidCenturyVault #RetroSnacks #1960s #PringlesHistory #IndustrialDesign #MidCenturyModern