Despite popularity decline, chicken nuggets are for all ages (Opinion)
Chicken nuggets are losing popularity in America, but they should still be celebrated by young and old
“If you look at me close enough, there’s a small resemblance to a chicken nugget.” — Kevin Hart
Chicken nuggets are often associated with being childish or for little kids — but these nuggets are for everyone, kids from one to 92. They will forever be treasured in the lives of any sane human being.
According to a History article, originally named chicken sticks, chicken nuggets were created by an agricultural scientist named Robert C. Baker inside a laboratory at Cornell University in 1963. This achievement crowned Baker the nickname “the George Washington Carver of chicken”.
Instead of placing a patent on his new invention, Baker sent out a recipe to hundreds of companies in the U.S. Many of these businesses would soon go on to become wealthy thanks to this gesture.
During World War II, the U.S. military required red meat for their soldiers. This led poultry demand in America to sky-rocket. Chicken became the main source of protein for Americans in the 1940s. As the war ended, red meat was reintroduced into the lives of Americans. The demand for chicken decreased. Robert C. Baker used chicken nuggets to keep the poultry industry alive and get more Americans to eat chicken.
Chicken nugget mania, originating from McDonalds, started in 1983. This excitement led people and companies all over to create and perfect their own nugget recipes.
Currently, “data shows that chicken nuggets are appearing on menus less often, and demand in restaurants declined from 2017 to 2018”. Today’s parents and adults somewhat fear this traditional chicken-y goodness. The worry is the sodium level and additives that can appear in the chicken. Like many foods, certain brands of nuggets can lack the needed nutrition to have full energy, while others can have nutritional value. A good habit to have is to look at the nutritional value of any food that you purchase.
There are other nugget options out there that can satisfy nutritional needs, and there are even recipes that people can make to fit their own needs. Try to look for nuggets breaded in whole grain and with white meat instead of left over parts. It is important to remember that with any meal, you want to surround it with fruit and lots of veggies. Try having some nuggets with a nice salad and an apple! Since the nugget is already breaded, extra grains aren’t necessary.
People of all ages can still enjoy chicken nuggets and live their best life. No one is ever too old to savor their chicken-y goodness!
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Skylar Whalen is a senior. She is this year's editor-in-chief. Skylar enjoys painting, singing, and playing softball. She is a huge animal lover and works with dogs outside of school. Skylar plays competitive softball and hopes to play in college. She is excited to help other writers succeed and grow. Skylar can’t wait to work with new people and produce engaging stories for the community around her. She also enjoys having the excuse to write about herself in third person and make her seem interesting.
Myli Valdez • Sep 1, 2023 at 8:59 am
I appreciate this article its so up lifting to see students shedding light on topics like this. Dinosaurs nuggets are on of things that will never get old no matter what age you are. Like this writer said “kids from one or to 92 they will forever be treasured.” But in our life’s we need these “childish things” even when we think we are to cool from them.
– Myli Valdez
Mason • Aug 31, 2023 at 8:38 am
I want my Dino nuggets
Candace • Nov 7, 2021 at 3:38 pm
Interesting article, a lot of great information. Well written as well.
Spenser Leise • Oct 22, 2021 at 9:24 am
A funny, and very informative article. Thank you for the chicken nugget history lesson.
Stacy Avitia • Oct 20, 2021 at 9:42 am
I personally hate Dino nuggets but I love how detailed this article is about the nuggets. Now I am very inspired to give Dino nuggets another try I mean they are “kids from one to 92” !!
🙂
Ana • Oct 20, 2021 at 9:36 am
The topic’s originality piqued my interest. It was not only imaginative, but also educational. I learnt so much history that I had no idea existed for a simple chicken nugget. This exemplifies how you can write about anything and make it interesting and educational.
Melia • Oct 20, 2021 at 9:34 am
I admire how you included not only your opinion, but background information about where chicken nuggets originated from and how they gained popularity over the years. I agree with your statement, it’s a delicious food for everyone. All we have to do now is demolish the stigma surrounding chicken nuggets being “childish” food. 🙂
Dj • Oct 20, 2021 at 9:33 am
I would just at a 2+ tag on every box
Kaylyn • Oct 20, 2021 at 9:30 am
I LOVE DINO NUGGIES! This article is magnificent Skylar *clap clap* I love how unique and interesting this is.