– Co-Inventor of Pop Tarts
– Dies at 96.
William Post, Co-Inventor of Pop Tarts, Passes Away at 96
Background of a Breakfast Revolutionary
William Post, one of the co-inventors of the beloved breakfast pastry Pop Tarts, sadly passed away on February 10th, 2024 in Grand Rapids, Michigan at the age of 96. Post’s contribution to the world of breakfast has left a lasting impact on millions of people.
Post’s journey into the creation of Pop Tarts began when he worked as a plant manager at the Hekman Biscuit Company (later known as Keebler) in 1964. It was during this time that executives from Kellogg’s approached him with an innovative idea – a shelf-stable toaster pastry that could be enjoyed on the go.
The Birth of a Delicious Morning Treat
While the initial idea came from Kellogg’s chairman William E. LaMothe, it was Post who played a vital role in perfecting the concept and transforming it into the delicious morning treat that we know today. Despite facing disapproval from his own superiors, Post dedicated himself to the development of Pop Tarts.
Post tirelessly worked in the laboratory, handcrafting nearly 10,000 samples within a span of four weeks. His dedication paid off when the product was released as a test product a few months later. The response was overwhelming, especially among children. It was Post who suggested freezing the Pop Tarts to facilitate easier shipping and prevent them from melting in toaster ovens. Additionally, he advocated for the inclusion of icing, a suggestion that was implemented in 1967.
A True Revolutionary
William Post’s contributions to the breakfast industry were nothing short of revolutionary. His dedication and innovative thinking transformed a simple idea into a beloved breakfast staple. Post’s legacy lives on in every box of Pop Tarts consumed around the world.
News of his passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and colleagues. William Post will be dearly missed, but his impact on the world of breakfast will never be forgotten.
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– Co-Inventor of Pop Tarts Dies at 96
– Brigid Pfeifer, Co-Inventor of Pop Tarts, Passes Away at 96.
