Twinkies Last Forever and Other Junk Food Myths

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Thomas Jefferson Introduced America to Vanilla Ice Cream

Though he likely would have been more than happy to take credit for it, Thomas Jefferson didn't invent ice cream, nor was he even the first person to bring it to America. The United States of America's third President had previously been Ambassador to France, where he picked up a taste for many French dishes and flavors, including ice cream. James Hemings was Jefferson's chef and slave (though he was later emancipated), and Jefferson sent him to Paris to learn the secrets of French cooking. Jefferson was crazy about ice cream and had it served often at his home. So, though he didn't invent it, or even introduce it to America, he is responsible for popularizing it. 

Still curious? Check out the Presidents and Their Food: 50 Facts You Never Knew.