A History of Innovation
Starting in 1926, Hormel Foods introduced canned ham—the first product of its kind. Hormel Foods followed this with the introduction of Hormel® chili and Dinty Moore® beef stew in 1935. SPAM® luncheon meat was introduced in 1937, and in 1949, Mary Kitchen® roast beef hash, Mary Kitchen® corned beef hash and Hormel® deviled ham were launched. In 1959, Hormel® Little Sizzlers® pork sausage was introduced, and in 1963, Hormel® CURE 81® ham was launched after an extensive research project involving almost 1,000 homemakers in 16 American cities.
In 1987, Hormel Foods introduced Top Shelf® main dish entrées—the first unfrozen, shelf-stable line designed specifically for the microwave. The company also introduced Hormel® microwave bacon in 1988.
Hormel Foods’ innovation extends beyond retail as we were one of the first national manufacturers to introduce Applewood smoked bacon to the foodservice industry in 2000.
Jennie-O Turkey Store introduced the Jennie-O Turkey Store® Oven Ready whole turkey in 2004—a revolutionary item that goes from the freezer to the oven without the need to thaw, clean and prep.
Download a full copy of the report.