Considering that 90% of the American population enjoys ice cream, and that we each consume 5 gallons of ice cream on average each year, it’s no surprise that the US eats more ice cream than any other country. So it only made sense in 1984 when President Ronald Reagan designated July National Ice Cream Month, and the third Sunday of the month as National Ice Cream Day. In honor of the holiday, here’s an infographic sharing some fun facts about this delectable food. Share it (and a scoop) with a friend!
Source: SeniorAdvisor.com
Did You Know…???
The earliest written record of a frozen confection called “milk ice” comes from ancient China, while biblical passages refer to King Solomon enjoying “a snow-cooled drink at harvest time.” The Roman Emperor Nero and Alexander the Great were both said to enjoy snow flavored with sweeteners such as honey and fruit juice. Iced desserts were served in the wealthiest households and courts of Italy, England, France, and Spain.
Ice cream was brought over from Europe to the American colonies as early as 1744. Thomas Jefferson even wrote down a recipe for it. The first ice cream parlor opened in New York City in 1776. Dolly Madison, wife of President James Madison, popularized ice cream in 1812 by serving a dessert of frozen cream, sugar and fruit at the White House. In 1843, a New Jersey homemaker named Nancy Johnson invented a hand-cranked ice cream churn.
In 1851, the first commercial ice cream plant opened in Baltimore. It was run by Jacob Fussell, known as the father of the American ice cream industry. He used ice blocks and an underground storage area to keep his ice cream cool and fresh. With the introduction of electric freezers in the 1940s, the frozen treat became easily distributable and profitable. By the end of the 20th century, many brands and flavors of ice cream were marketed in supermarkets and franchised parlors. What’s your favorite ice cream?
