Pickles make sandwiches taste so much better. Whether crunchy spears are served on the side or salty circular slivers are added on top of a burger, these condiments are a popular addition to every plate. Cucumbers, while (almost) equally delicious, spend some time on the shelf soaking in a mixture of vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and a variety of other spices like dill and garlic. After a period of time, varying from a few hours to a few weeks, a once bland-tasting vegetable is transformed into a tasty snack. Keep reading to learn everything there is to know about pickles!
Fun Pickle Facts for Kids
For curious kids who want to learn a little more about their favorite, salty treat, reading children's books all about pickles is a good way to expand their knowledge. These stories are mostly silly fictional accounts of pickles with big personalities who find themselves in, well, "in a pickle" from time to time. There is really a lot more to learn about the green, crunchy veggie than what you might think. Here are some intriguing pickle facts that will boggle little minds!When pulling together a fun pickle-themed gift, fill a card with fun facts to share about this delicious snack.
(1) Americans eat a lot of pickles.
Apparently people like their pickles more than most would realize. According to the Department of Agriculture, Americans consume just over 8 pounds of pickles per person every single year! Collectively, the US population eats 2.5 billion pounds of pickles annually, which translates into a mind-boggling 20 billion pickles in total.
(2) Dill pickles are the most popular.
Americans have made it clear that they prefer salty over sugary cucumbers. Dill pickles are twice as popular and outsell sweet pickles across the country. The main ingredients in dill pickle recipes include salt, garlic, tumeric, mustard oil, and citric acid. There are some definite health benefits to eating dill pickles, however, moderation is key. Vitamin K, calcium, and potassium collectively help with bone strength, healthy teeth, blood clotting, and nerve function. Remember, however, that the sodium content is high which can cause high blood pressure, leading to a risk of stroke and heart disease.
(3) There is a pickle capital.
There seems to be a capital of everything these days, though even you may be surprised to find out that pickles have one, too! Pickle Packers International dubbed St. Charles, Illinois the pickle capital of the world. In the 1800s, this town was responsible for promoting pickle consumption, however, it wasn't until 1978 that the title was put in writing by the Illinois General Assembly. town owes thanks to William Moore, an advertising professional based on East Main Street, who was the driving force behind putting pickle images on everything. He created a line of pickle-shaped purses, earring, memo pads, and all kinds of other trinkets. Other cities, like Mansfield, Texas, have claimed this title as well, but the overriding claim to this title is St. Charles.
(4) There is a Christmas pickle capital.
Not to be outdone, Berrien Springs, Michigan declared itself the Christmas Pickle Capital. The Grand Dillmeister leads a big parage through town in December. Instead of tossing out candy, marchers in the parade toss fresh pickles to all the locals who have come to watch this pickle-themed celebration. This quirky parade had a successful run from 1992 to 2005, took a sixteen year hiatus, and returned in full force in 2021. Known as a high pickle-producing region, thousand of people embrace their affinity by joining together in 5k runs, pageants, and of course, enjoying a variety of pickle products.
(5) Sailors survived on pickles.
American citizens likely have pickles to thank for the discovery of this beautiful country. Of the many hurdles Christopher Columbus had to overcome, keeping his sailors healthy and free of scurvy was toward the top of this list. His strategy, which was apparently pretty effective, was to feed pickles to his crew. These tasty snacks could survive long journeys without rotting like other food, and provided just enough nourishment to keep the sailors strong enough the endure the trip. He even went so far as to grow cucumbers during a stop in Haiti in order to keep his sailors strong for the rest of the journey.
(6) National Pickle Day is November 14th.
Historians trace the origin of the holiday back to 1949, when the Pickle Packers Association encouraged the observation of pickles on this very date. Declaring the holiday was part of a larger promotion to boost sales and consumption of pickles. While the National Holiday Calendar does not credit this organization with founding the holiday, they undoubtedly played a large role in identifying a date for pickle lovers to celebrate. So what exactly happens on this holiday? Well, some like to make their own pickles, enjoy some pickle beer, and just generally indulge in their favorite, crunchy snack.
(7) According to Connecticut legend, pickles must bounce.
Back in 1949, an infamous pair of pickle producers, Sidney Sparer and Moses Dexler, were charged with selling pickles that were not up to code for human consumption. After reports of people falling ill, the Food and Drug Commissioner declared that the tried and true test for pickle safety is measured by the bounce. Diligent researchers may be disappointed to find no mention of this law in the state library, however, very few dispute this interesting regulation that was once followed by all pickle retailers in the state.
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