05/30/2026
MENOMONIE — HOME OF INSTANT HOT COCOA
We're excited to see Menomonie's story featured in The Food That Built America – Season 7, Episode 5: "Chocolate in a Glass."
The episode highlights the innovations that transformed chocolate beverages in America, including the remarkable story of Swiss Miss—one of Menomonie's most famous contributions to the nation.
Charles Sanna, a Menomonie dairy innovator, helped revolutionize instant beverage products through his work on milk processing technology. He patented an instant soluble milk product in 1963 and later patented an instant marshmallow product in 1975. These innovations helped make convenient cocoa mixes possible and contributed to the growth and success of Swiss Miss, which was introduced nationally in 1961.
What began in Menomonie became a household name, warming millions of cups across America and earning our community a special place in food history.
As we celebrate Menomonie's appearance on The Food That Built America, we also celebrate the creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit that have shaped our community for generations.
🎥 Watch the episode here:
https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xaa3y36
Menomonie isn't just a beautiful place to live—it's a place where ideas changed America.