July 5, 1937: Spam® introduced

On July 5, 1937, Hormel Foods introduced a canned meat product that would become an American icon. The history of SPAM began in Austin, Minnesota, and nearly 90 years later, that familiar blue-and-yellow can is still found on grocery store shelves around the world.

The History of SPAM: From 1937 to Today

Hormel developed the canned pork product during the Great Depression, offering consumers an affordable, convenient meat that didn’t require refrigeration until opened.

During World War II, SPAM became an important food source for American troops and Allied forces. Its long shelf life made it especially useful in places where fresh meat was difficult to obtain.

The product also became popular overseas, particularly in places such as Hawaii, Guam, and South Korea, where it remains part of the local food culture.

Not bad for something that comes out of a can!

Growing Up with SPAM

Growing up, my mother would occasionally make SPAM for dinner. She would take the meat out of the can, slice it, and fry it up.

That was pretty much the extent of our family’s culinary adventures with the stuff.

It’s amazing how many different varieties have appeared over the years. What started as one original flavor has expanded to include choices like Hot & Spicy, Teriyaki, and Garlic.

It’s been a long time since I’ve shopped for it, so I’m not sure how many of those varieties are actually available at my local grocery store.

There’s Even a SPAM Museum!

And here’s something that makes this story even better.

If you ever happen to be traveling through Minnesota, there’s actually a SPAM Museum in Austin, south of Minneapolis.

The museum celebrates the product’s history, its worldwide popularity, and its place in American culture.

I’ve never been there, but you better believe if I’m ever in the area, I’m stopping!

A museum dedicated to canned meat? That’s exactly the kind of roadside attraction I love.

SPAM Fries? Now You’ve Got My Attention!

The official SPAM website also features a surprising number of recipes.

I wish the internet had existed in the 1970s. Mom might have been able to try something other than just fried SPAM!

I have to admit, some of those recipes look pretty good. I’m particularly intrigued by SPAM Fries.

I may have to buy a can or two and give them a try.

Happy Anniversary, SPAM! I’m off to the grocery store. I’m determined to try those fries!

For more events that happened on this date, check out my July 5 Today in History article.

Photo: Hormel Foods Corporation