Shea Simmons
When it comes to fast-food staples, Wendy’s Frosty is among the most well-known. The chocolate milkshake meets soft serve concoction is a favorite for many, but for some, it’s also all about what you pair the treat with.
Some (myself included) love dipping some hot and salt Wendy’s fries into their Frosty, and there might be a scientific reason why this combination is so popular.
Shelly Thobe, director of culinary innovation at Wendy’s, explained to Thrillist that the combination of hot and cold as well as the mixed flavor profiles are what make people’s taste buds react so strongly. The salty meets sweet and cold meets hot duality activates all of our senses. Everything from textures to taste makes it a more intense experience.
While Thobe might work for Wendy’s, Thrillist also spoke with Matt Hartings, a professor of chemistry at American University, who agreed with her assessment. He argued that the hot and cold and savory and sweet combination is essentially how chefs create their meals—by striking a balance. Plus, fries are particularly great because they’re porous and can soak up the Frosty as they scoop.
If you’ve never dipped your fries into your Frosty, this is one not-so-secret menu hack you might want to give a try. After all, it’s backed by science!
