15 Interesting Facts about Ice Cream

Introduction:

Are you an ice cream lover? Whether you prefer it served in “scoops” or swirled in a waffle cone, there is no doubt that ice cream is a favorite dessert of many people. It is nearly impossible to turn down a scooped sundae topped with fudge and gummy bears. Delicious and delightful, it’s no wonder that people often treat themselves with ice cream. Here are 15 interesting facts about the beloved iced treat.

Fact 1: The Chinese invented the first Ice Cream

Surprisingly, it all began more than two thousand years ago in China. The Chinese created a dessert made from a frozen mixture of milk and rice and flavored with camphor. From there, the recipe got to the Middle East where the Arabs, who introduced sugar as a seasoning, developed it further and created the ice cream we know today.

Fact 2: The first Ice Cream Shop opened in 1776

The first ice cream shop was opened in 1776 by an Italian immigrant named Antonio Brunelli in London, England. It was called “The Wyvern’s Confectionery” and became famous for its creamy and unique flavors. In the first years of success, it attracted the attention of the Queen and other wealthy customers.

Fact 3: Vanilla is the most popular Ice Cream flavor

Vanilla is the most popular ice cream flavor worldwide. It is preferred by 36% of people, according to an online survey. The second place goes to Chocolate with 23%, and Strawberry has 14%. It’s not surprising that Vanilla is so well-loved, given its classic tastes and its pleasant aroma.

Fact 4: Ice Cream is usually made with 10% Butterfat

Butterfat is a key-ingredient in ice cream, giving it its creamy texture and unique taste. On average, ice cream contains between 10-15% butterfat as required by the US Food and Drug Administration. Low-fat varieties generally have less while premium varieties like gourmet ice creams can contain up to 18%.

Fact 5: The World’s Largest Ice Cream Cone Weighed Over 4 Tonnes

In 2013, residents of Akron, Ohio, made a statement on the history books. Topping their entry from earlier in the year, they created the world’s largest ice cream cone which weighed a whopping 4.3 tonnes. The giant cone was constructed over ten days and consumed by over one thousand people during a special event.

Fact 6: Brooklyn is home to the world’s oldest ice cream parlor

Brooklynites can always take pride in being one of the oldest and most established boroughs in the world but their heritage goes above and beyond. The neighborhood is also home to the world’s oldest Ice Cream Parlor, established in 1881 by Italian immigrant Francesco Procopio Cutò. The shop is called “The Original Brooklyn Ice Cream Parlor” and continues to serve its original Italian ices and ice cream.

Fact 7: There are several World Records involving Ice Cream

Guinness World Records is home to a myriad of ice-cream related feats. From the Worls largest ice-cream scoop at 5 kg (11 lbs) to the most Bon Bons uncovered from an ice-cream sundae in 30 seconds, ice-cream fans have plenty to live for.

Fact 8: “Brain Freeze” is a real thing

Everyone has experienced the dreaded phenomenon known as “Brain Freeze” at least once in their life. It occurs when you eat something cold too quickly and it affects the nerves in the top of your mouth. This sends a pain signal up to your brain, causing the forehead to ache.

Fact 9: There are over 1,000 Different Ice Cream Flavors

It is estimated that there are over 1,000 different flavors of ice cream currently available. From swirls of coffee and caramel to bars of chocolate-chip mint and banana split, every taste can be satisfied from this summertime treat.

Fact 10: Ice Cream was not always sold in cones

Believe it or not, ice cream cones were not utilized until the 1904 World Fair in St. Louis. It was there that an ice cream vendor ran out of cups and asked a nearby waffle vendor for assistance. Together, they forged a solution and created the beloved ice cream cone.

Fact 11: Vanilla Ice Cream is the most popular at the White House

President Obama’s favorite ice cream flavor is rum raisin, however, vanilla is the most popular flavor served in the White House. This popsicle classic is used in a variety of recipes, for everything from root beer floats to pies.

Fact 12: National Ice Cream Day is celebrated in the United States every third Sunday of July

Every third Sunday of July, Americans come together to celebrate National Ice Cream Day. It is the perfect day to cool off with some homemade ice cream or to indulge in a scoop at a local shop.

Fact 13: The U.S. produces more ice cream than any other country in the world

The United States produces more ice cream than any other nation. In fact, the country produces over 1.5 billion gallons of deliciousness a year. In the U.S., August is the most popular month for ice cream consumption, with July coming in as a close second.

Fact 14: A pint of Ice Cream can have over 1,500 calories

No one can deny the deliciousness of ice cream, but it’s no secret that it can be quite unhealthy. A single pint of premium ice cream can contain up to 1,500 calories, nearly 70 grams of fat and 75 grams of sugar. That’s why it’s important to indulge in moderation.

Fact 15: The world’s most expensive pint costs almost $1,000

The world’s most expensive pint of ice cream can be found in Dubai. The luxurious dessert is served at the Scoopi café and is made with Madagascar vanilla beans, Italian saffron, truffles, and edible gold. This decadent treat costs a whopping $817 and is topped with 23 carat gold leaf.

Conclusion

Ice cream is a beloved treat enjoyed by people around the world. From its humble start thousands of years ago in China, to the first ice cream shop in England, the iced dessert has come a long way. From American presidents to world records, it has a fascinating history that every lover of the frozen treat should know. These 15 facts demonstrate the versatility of ice cream and why it continues to remain a favorite.