Ever wonder which food brands have been around since your grandparents were kids? America’s got some real oldies but goodies when it comes to the stuff we eat and drink. In this article, I’ll have you take a trip down memory lane and check out 16 American food brands that might just be older than you think.
Quaker Oats (1877)
Quaker Oats has been warming bellies for over 140 years. Started by Henry Parsons Crowell, this brand made oatmeal a breakfast staple. They’re known for their iconic Quaker Man logo and have expanded to make granola bars, cereals, and snacks. Quaker Oats was one of the first companies to offer box-top premiums to customers.
Coca-Cola (1886)
Coca-Cola was invented by pharmacist John Pemberton as a non-alcoholic version of his French Wine Coca. It was first sold as a syrup mixed with carbonated water. The brand quickly became popular and has since become one of the most recognized in the world. Today, Coca-Cola is enjoyed in over 200 countries.
Aunt Jemima (1889)
Aunt Jemima started as a pancake mix brand, created by Chris Rutt and Charles Underwood. The brand’s name and image have recently changed to Pearl Milling Company due to racial sensitivity concerns. Their pancake mixes and syrups have been a breakfast favorite for generations. The company has expanded to offer a variety of breakfast products.
Cream of Wheat (1893)
Cream of Wheat was created by wheat millers in North Dakota during a financial crisis. This hot cereal became popular for its smooth texture and mild flavor. It’s often fortified with iron and has been a nutritious breakfast option for over a century. The brand is known for its iconic chef logo on the box.
Jell-O (1897)
Jell-O was trademarked by Pearle Wait but really took off when it was purchased by Orator Woodward. This jiggly dessert became a staple at potlucks and family gatherings. Jell-O has expanded beyond just gelatin to puddings and other treats. It’s been called “America’s Most Famous Dessert.”
Pepsi (1898)
Pepsi was created by pharmacist Caleb Bradham and was originally called “Brad’s Drink.” It was renamed Pepsi-Cola in 1903 and has been Coca-Cola’s main rival ever since. Pepsi has been known for its celebrity endorsements and youth-focused marketing. The brand also owns other popular drinks and snacks.
Hershey’s (1900)
Milton Hershey started his chocolate company after success in the caramel business. Hershey’s became famous for its milk chocolate bars and Kisses. The company built an entire town in Pennsylvania for its workers. Today, it makes a wide variety of candies and is one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world.
Kellogg’s (1906)
The Kellogg brothers accidentally invented wheat flakes while trying to make granola. This led to the creation of Kellogg’s Corn Flakes and the start of a breakfast empire. It created many popular cereals like Rice Krispies and Froot Loops. The company is known for its colorful mascots and catchy slogans.
Oreo (1912)
Oreo cookies were first made by the National Biscuit Company (Now Nabisco). The origin of the name is a mystery, but the cookie’s design hasn’t changed much since 1952. Oreos quickly became America’s favorite cookie and are now sold in over 100 countries. They’re famous for their “twist, lick, and dunk” eating ritual.
Hellmann’s (1913)
Richard Hellmann started selling mayonnaise from his New York deli. It became so popular that he began bottling it for wider distribution. Hellmann’s is known for its blue ribbon logo, which was originally a symbol of quality. The brand is called Best Foods in some parts of the U.S. but is the same product.
Tastykake (1914)
Tastykake started in Philadelphia, making small “tasty cakes” that could stay fresh for days. Their Krimpets and Kandy Kakes became local favorites. The company expanded over the years but kept its focus on quality snack cakes. Tastykake is still based in Philly and is loved for its variety of sweet treats.
Moon Pie (1917)
Moon Pie was created when a Kentucky coal miner asked for a snack “as big as the moon.” The Chattanooga Bakery responded with a marshmallow sandwich dipped in chocolate. Moon Pies became popular in the South, especially when paired with RC Cola. They’re still a beloved treat and even have their own festival.
Wonder Bread (1921)
Wonder Bread revolutionized the bread industry with its soft, pre-sliced loaves. It was one of the first brands to fortify bread with vitamins and minerals. The brand’s colorful balloon packaging became iconic in American kitchens. Wonder Bread has gone through some changes but remains a popular choice for sandwiches.
Baby Ruth (1921)
Contrary to popular belief, Baby Ruth wasn’t named after the baseball player Babe Ruth. The Curtiss Candy Company claimed it was named after President Grover Cleveland’s daughter. This chocolate bar with peanuts, caramel, and nougat has been a favorite for over a century. It’s now owned by Ferrero, but the recipe remains the same.
Wheaties (1924)
Wheaties were created accidentally when wheat bran spilled onto a hot stove. General Mills turned this mishap into “The Breakfast of Champions.” The cereal became famous for featuring athletes on its boxes. Many see being on a Wheaties box as a sign they’ve “made it” in their sport. The brand continues to celebrate athletic achievement.
Hostess (1930)
While Hostess Brands was officially formed in 1930, its roots go back to 1919 with Continental Baking Company. Hostess became famous for snack cakes like Twinkies, which were invented in 1930. The brand has faced some tough times, including bankruptcy, but its beloved treats have always bounced back. Hostess snacks remain a nostalgic favorite for many Americans.
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