Iowa Resident Claims Championship Title In Key Lime Pie Eating Contest

Joshua Mogle, a tire manufacturing manager from Altoona, Iowa, emerged victorious in the Key Lime Pie Eating Championship held in Key West, Florida. While New York had its famous hot dog eating contest on Independence Day, Key West celebrated with a sweeter alternative, showcasing the origins of the beloved Key lime pie.

Mogle dove face-first into a 9-inch pie slathered with whipped cream, adhering to the competition’s rule of forbidding the use of hands. The challenge took place during Key West’s five-day Key Lime Festival and served as a tropical twist on the renowned Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest.

The man devoured the delectable dessert in an impressive time of three minutes and 35 seconds, surpassing 24 other competitors. Thought to have originated in Key West during the late 1800s, Key lime pie is a delectable dessert comprising condensed milk, egg yolks, and the juice of small yellow Key limes. It is traditionally served with a graham cracker crust and topped with either whipped cream or meringue.

Such is its cultural importance that the Florida legislature bestowed upon it the official title of the state’s pie in 2006. Coincidentally, the Key Lime Pie Eating Championship took place shortly after the creation of a colossal Key lime pie measuring 13.14 feet (4 meters) in diameter.

As a tribute to the bicentennial celebration of the Florida Keys, which marks the founding of Monroe County and encompasses the entire chain of islands, an immense pie was meticulously crafted. These festivities highlight the unique culinary heritage and traditions associated with Key West.

The Key Lime Festival and its pie-eating competition serve as a testament to the region’s vibrant culture, attracting locals and visitors alike. Through events like these, food becomes a source of celebration and a means to bring communities together while showcasing the distinct flavors and creations that define a particular place.