Mystery Solved

And just like that, the Donut Phenomenon is no longer a mystery. Thanks to a tip from a reader, the source turns out to be Horizon Snack Foods.

I drove by the place just to verify and two Horizon employees were walking out. When I asked them if the factory was the source of the “donut” smell in Salt Lake, they flashed huge knowing smiles and a hearty “yep.” They also informed me that the smell comes from fruit pies, not donuts.

Thanks Internet.

The Donut Phenomenon

This is not a post about design, business or user experience.

This is a post about a mystery.

There’s something strange happening in downtown Salt Lake City Utah. On certain days, and in the grid of streets around North Temple, there is a distinctive smell of donuts in the air.

But there are no bakeries that I’m aware of and no other food establishments that would obviously produce this smell. As I ride through this part of town, the scent also shifts dramatically, never localizing in any particular point.

Yesterday, I could smell it all the way up in the avenues.

A few days before that, it had moved northwest (against the wind) and was right next to the Sealy mattress plant.

I don’t have any specific affinity for donuts (except for the ones produced by a certain bakery in Lehi, Utah), but this mystery must be solved.

Anyone with information, please contact me. Any theories welcome.