Stuff You Should Know: Short Stuff – The Guinness Widget

Release Date: January 29, 2025
Hosts: Josh Clark & Chuck Bryant
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts

Introduction to the Guinness Widget

In the "Short Stuff" segment of the "Stuff You Should Know" podcast, hosts Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant delve into the intriguing world of the Guinness widget—a small device embedded in cans of Guinness beer that revolutionizes the drinking experience. The discussion promises to unravel the mystery behind this seemingly simple component and its significant impact on beer enjoyment.

Notable Quote:
"We're talking widgets on Short stuff. I should say widgets that were first introduced as a concept from a play."
— Josh Clark [00:34]

Origins and Etymology of Widgets

Josh and Chuck begin by exploring the origin of the term "widget," suggesting its roots may trace back to a 1924 play where the term was used to describe a generic product. They highlight how Guinness adopted and patented the term to name their specific device, distinguishing it from the general notion of a gadget.

Notable Quote:
"We don't know the true etymology, but I believe it was in a play in 1924 where they specifically in the play talked about, like, we're in the widget business."
— Chuck Bryant [01:05]

The Science Behind the Guinness Widget

The conversation shifts to the scientific principles that make Guinness unique. Chuck introduces Michael Ash, a mathematician and master brewer at Guinness, who in 1951 sought to preserve the smooth, creamy texture of cask-aged Guinness as the industry moved towards kegging. Ash's solution was the infusion of nitrogen alongside carbon dioxide, leading to the development of the widget.

Notable Quote:
"Michael Ash was like, this cask, Guinness is smooth and creamy, and CO2 just doesn't do it."
— Chuck Bryant [04:38]

Functionality of the Widget

Josh and Chuck dissect the mechanics of the widget, describing it as a small plastic sphere with a hole that releases nitrogen when the can is opened. This process replicates the cascading effect and creamy head characteristic of Guinness poured from a tap. The hosts explain how nitrogen's lower solubility compared to carbon dioxide results in smaller, more stable bubbles, enhancing the beer's texture and appearance.

Notable Quote:
"When you pour this nitrogen infused Guinness beer, the head will be foamier, much creamier than say like a CO2 lager head that eventually kind of settles down."
— Josh Clark [08:53]

Historical Development and Patenting

The discussion covers the development of the widget, highlighting John Lunn's role in creating the device and Guinness's subsequent patent filing in 1969. Originally dubbed "Project Dynamite," the project underwent several name changes due to customs concerns before settling on a name aligned with Guinness's branding.

Notable Quote:
"They filed the patent in '69 for an improved method of and means of dispensing carbonated liquids from containers."
— Chuck Bryant [10:19]

Impact on Beer Consumption

Josh and Chuck share their personal experiences with Guinness, contrasting the canned version with the traditional cask-poured beer. They discuss the differences in mouthfeel, carbonation, and overall satisfaction, emphasizing how the widget successfully emulates the pub experience in a can.

Notable Quote:
"Guinness is supposed to go down like a milk and not a fizzy carbonated beverage."
— Chuck Bryant [11:02]

Comparisons with Other Brands

The hosts also mention other beer brands like Old Speckled Hen, Boddington's, Murphy's, and more, all utilizing widget technology to deliver a similar creamier texture. This segment underscores the widget's influence beyond Guinness, affecting how various stouts and cream ales are packaged and enjoyed.

Notable Quote:
"Old Speckled Hen uses widgets, too, which I didn't know. That used to be one of my fave beers for a while."
— Josh Clark [17:29]

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Wrapping up the episode, Josh and Chuck reflect on the ingenuity of the Guinness widget, acknowledging its significant role in preserving the traditional Guinness experience in a modern, portable format. They humorously lament their own lack of firsthand experience with the properly poured canned Guinness, expressing interest in exploring it further.

Notable Quote:
"It's really ingenious, though. I mean, it's got this tiny little hole and imagine a little ball filled with like, nitrogen infused beer being jetted out of this tiny little hole as you opened and pouring this beer. It's so simple, it's ingenious."
— Chuck Bryant [14:34]

Key Takeaways

• Widget Origins: The term "widget" likely originated from a 1924 play and was later adopted by Guinness to name their specific beer-can device.

• Nitrogen's Role: Nitrogen, less soluble than carbon dioxide, creates smaller, stable bubbles, leading to Guinness's signature creamy head and cascading effect.

• Patent and Development: John Lunn developed the widget, leading to Guinness patenting the technology in 1969 after overcoming initial naming challenges.

• Impact on Beer Consumption: The widget allows canned Guinness to mimic the experience of cask-poured beer, enhancing portability without compromising quality.

• Wider Influence: Other beer brands have adopted widget technology to deliver similar textures and experiences, broadening the widget's impact on the beer industry.

Conclusion

In this insightful episode of "Short Stuff," Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant effectively demystify the Guinness widget, blending technical explanations with personal anecdotes. Their engaging discussion not only educates listeners on the widget's functionality and history but also highlights its lasting influence on beer consumption and packaging.