In our Food Masters Series, we take a look at some of the most iconic food and drink producers and products and explore what makes them great...
Kellogg's Corn Flakes have been a breakfast staple in households all over the world for over a century. The simple, yet satisfying cereal has remained popular through the years, becoming a household name and a symbol of breakfast traditions. So, how has Kellogg's Corn Flakes maintained its popularity for so long?
Firstly, it's important to understand the history of Kellogg's Corn Flakes. The cereal was created in the late 1800s by Dr. John Harvey Kellogg and his brother Will Keith Kellogg. Dr. Kellogg was a health fanatic and believed in the power of a vegetarian diet to cure illnesses. He developed a flaked cereal made from corn as a healthy, digestible option for his patients. However, it was his brother Will Keith who saw the commercial potential of the cereal and founded the Kellogg Company to produce and market it to the masses.
One reason for the longevity of Kellogg's Corn Flakes is its simplicity. The cereal is made from just a few ingredients, including corn, sugar, salt, and malt flavoring. This straightforward formula has remained largely unchanged since its inception, and has become a reliable and familiar breakfast option for generations. People know what to expect when they pour themselves a bowl of Kellogg's Corn Flakes, and that consistency is comforting. This consistency helps to develop a long-term fan base and sales volume.
Another factor in the cereal's ongoing popularity is its versatility. While Corn Flakes are delicious with milk and a touch of sugar, they can also be used in a variety of recipes. From classic treats like using marshmallows to create cornflake squares to more sophisticated dishes like chicken breading or as a topping for casseroles, the crunchy flakes add a satisfying texture and subtle corn flavor. The possibilities are endless, and that versatility has kept Corn Flakes relevant in modern cooking. You don't have to spend long on tik-tok before someone is sprinkling them on a dish and popping them in an air-fryer!
Kellogg's Corn Flakes has also remained relevant by adapting to changing consumer preferences. For example, the company introduced a gluten-free version of the cereal in 2015, acknowledging the growing demand for gluten-free options.
They have also experimented with various flavors and limited edition products over the years, including honey, cinnamon, and chocolate variants. This willingness to adapt to changing trends has allowed Kellogg's Corn Flakes to remain a popular choice among consumers of all ages.
Additionally, Kellogg's has invested heavily in advertising and marketing, making Corn Flakes a household name. From the iconic rooster mascot to memorable slogans like "Snap, Crackle, Pop" for their Rice Krispies cereal, the company has created a strong brand identities that people recognize and trust. This branding has helped to keep Kellogg's Corn Flakes top of mind for consumers, ensuring that the cereal remains a popular choice in a crowded market.
Instantly recognisable, many people don’t know the Kellogg’s Corn Flakes mascot is called Cornelius.
Cornelius, hasn’t always been on the Corn Flakes pack, he was introduced in the late 1950’s. The commercial idea to put a cockerel on the Kellogg’s Corn Flakes pack is believed to be have come from W.K. Kellogg’s welsh friend Nansi Richards, who suggested a rooster as the welsh translation was ‘ceiliog’… its pronunciation similar to ‘Kellogg’.
Also the rooster was a symbol for the start of the day, back before alarm clocks therefore it made sense to connect this image with this iconic breakfast cereal.
In conclusion, Kellogg's Corn Flakes have remained popular for so many years due to a combination of factors. Its simplicity, versatility, ability to adapt, and strong branding have all contributed to its longevity. While there are now many breakfast cereal options available, Kellogg's Corn Flakes continue to hold a special place in people's hearts and kitchens. It's a timeless classic that has stood the test of time, and will likely continue to do so for years to come.
The challenge for Food & Drink producers of the future is to find a bit of Cornelius in their own brands!
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