10 Popular Foods That Were Invented By Accident

6. Corn Flakes: A Flaky Discovery

The creation of cornflakes, a breakfast staple, was a serendipitous accident by Dr. John Harvey Kellogg and his brother Will Keith Kellogg in the late 19th century. While attempting to make a healthy granola-like product for patients at their sanitarium, the Kelloggs accidentally left cooked wheat to sit, causing it to become stale. In an effort to salvage it, they pressed it through rollers, creating thin flakes that were toasted and served. The resulting product was a hit, leading to the development of cornflakes. This accidental discovery revolutionized breakfast and paved the way for the modern cereal industry, showcasing how unexpected outcomes can lead to new culinary categories.