Bill Post, a veteran and the inventor of the iconic Pop-Tart, passed away at the age of 96. He led the Michigan baking team that created the beloved on-the-go breakfast pastry with a fruity filling and space-age sweetness. Post’s family announced his passing, but did not disclose the details of his death. He had been residing in a senior-living community in Grand Rapids, Michigan, near the baking plant where he pioneered the development of Pop-Tarts in 1963.

While culinary preferences have evolved over the years, the foil-wrapped snack has endured as a sugary staple in family kitchens and school cafeterias. Despite criticism for its nutritional content, with each frosted pack containing over 30 grams of sugar, Pop-Tarts continue to generate approximately $1 billion in annual sales for Kellanova, the successor to Kellogg’s.

Whether toasted or consumed raw, Pop-Tarts have cemented their place in American culture and cuisine, alongside other processed-food favorites like Cracker Jack, Twinkies, and Spam. Barb Stuckey, chief innovation officer for the food development company Mattson, highlighted the uniqueness of Pop-Tarts in making breakfast pastry convenient.

The enduring popularity of Pop-Tarts has also led to their portrayal in popular culture, with references in shows like “Family Guy” and “Saturday Night Live.” Additionally, comedian Jerry Seinfeld is set to direct a Netflix comedy film inspired by the iconic snack, titled “Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story,” scheduled for release in May.

Moreover, Pop-Tarts made a surreal appearance in college football through the Pop-Tarts Bowl, culminating in the “death” of the game’s mascot, an anthropomorphic Pop-Tart named Strawberry. The event captured widespread attention and culminated with the devouring of an oversized Pop-Tart by the winning team, marking a unique intersection of sports and popular culture.