Uncovering the History Behind Showboat Pork and Beans

Pork and beans are a beloved staple in many households. The savory taste and meaty texture make them a satisfying addition to any meal. While there are numerous brands of canned pork and beans available at the grocery store, Showboat stands out as a longstanding favorite.

With their signature tomato sauce and tender chunks of pork Showboat pork and beans have been warming bellies for over a century. But just who is behind this iconic canned bean brand? Let’s take a closer look at the history and evolution of Showboat pork and beans.

The Beginnings of Showboat Pork and Beans

Showboat pork and beans traces its origins back to the Showboat Foods Company based in California The company was founded in 1915 by two businessmen named Henderson and Skinner,

At the time, canned goods were still a relatively new phenomenon. Home canning was popular, but commercially canned foods were just becoming mainstream in America. Henderson and Skinner saw an opportunity to capitalize on the growing canned food industry.

Pork and beans were selected as Showboat’s flagship product. The canned beans were often served as part of military rations during World War I, increasing their popularity. Showboat set out to create the ideal pork and bean recipe that would satisfy consumers across the country.

Creating an Iconic Pork and Bean Recipe

Showboat experimented with different bean varieties, pork cuts, seasonings, and sauces in order to develop the perfect flavor profile. They settled on a recipe using quality Navy beans and salt pork smoked over hickory wood.

To complement the smoky pork, Showboat created a special tomato sauce recipe. The rich, tangy sauce struck the right balance with the meaty beans. Other seasonings like molasses, mustard, garlic, and onion rounded out the flavors.

This signature recipe gave Showboat pork and beans their distinctive sweet, smoky and hearty taste. While some variations have been introduced over the years, the original recipe remains largely unchanged. It’s this balance of flavors that has made Showboat a beloved household name.

Growing the Showboat Brand

In 1927, Showboat was acquired by the Kuner-Empson company. This allowed Showboat to ramp up distribution beyond California and reach markets across America. Kuner-Empson updated the packaging design but wisely retained the original recipe.

Showboat became a trusted staple in pantries across the country over the following decades. Nostalgic adults who grew up with Showboat beans now enjoy passing the brand on to their own kids and grandkids.

The company slogan “the beans you have always liked” reflects this enduring preference for Showboat’s comforting taste and quality. While other brands have tried to imitate it, Showboat’s authentic recipe keeps devotees coming back.

Under the ConAgra Umbrella

In the 1980s, ConAgra Foods purchased Kuner-Empson and absorbed Showboat into their extensive portfolio of food brands. However, ConAgra recognized the equity in the Showboat name and has maintained its production.

Some packaging and design changes reflect the new ownership, but the contents inside remain the same. ConAgra’s wide distribution network makes Showboat beans readily available from coast to coast.

For a period in the 2000s, some consumers complained that recipe tweaks by ConAgra compromised the taste. However, ConAgra insists they remain committed to Showboat’s original flavors. Recent customer reviews indicate the brand is back on track.

Showboat Today

Now over 100 years old, Showboat remains a beloved pantry staple. While the brand has evolved over the decades, the core recipe maintains its nostalgic flavor.

Consumers remain loyal to the distinctive smoky, sweet and meaty taste of Showboat pork and beans. The beans are a staple for family barbecues, potlucks, and everyday meals. Both old and new generations of Americans continue to enjoy this satisfying staple.

Beyond the classic beans, Showboat has expanded their pork and bean offerings:

• Organic Showboat Beans – Launched in 2008, these appeal to health-conscious consumers but retain the traditional flavors.

• Showboat 15 Bean Medley – This blend provides a mix of bean varieties like pinto, kidney, and black beans along with the classic pork chunks.

• No Salt Added and Reduced Sodium Beans – For consumers limiting their sodium intake.

• Baked Beans and Bean Pots – Oven-baked bean dishes for quick meal solutions.

• Showboat Vegetarian Beans – Pork-free versions baked with quality spices and seasonings.

While expanding to meet new preferences, Showboat stays grounded with their original 1910 pork and bean recipe. It’s a century-old American classic.

Tracking Down the Production Facility

Devoted Showboat fans often wonder exactly where their favorite pork and beans are produced today. Under ConAgra ownership, production has shifted around the country over time.

Here are the current manufacturing locations for Showboat pork and beans:

• Oakdale, California – This historic facility still produces a high volume of Showboat cans. It’s operated by ConAgra Brands.

• Lebanon, Indiana – Large facility also cranking out Showboat beans and operated by ConAgra.

• Marshalltown, Iowa – Smaller Showboat production site, owned by Newly Weds Foods (a subsidiary of ConAgra).

• Napoleon, Ohio – Canned goods facility that manufactures select Showboat products. Run by Omaha Food Products.

• Hangzhou, China – Some Showboat cans are produced at this location and exported back to America. Operated by Hangzhou Shanghai Real Food Company in partnership with ConAgra.

The exact source will vary, but consumers can be assured each factory follows the original process and recipes. Extensive quality control ensures consistency across production batches.

Many folks don’t realize that this iconic American brand now involves some international production. However, the Made in China cans still deliver the distinctive Showboat taste that consumers expect.

Showboat’s Timeless Appeal

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For over a century, Showboat pork and beans have graced family tables and picnic spreads as a beloved staple. The company has weathered changes in ownership and production locations. But they’ve wisely maintained the formulas that keep devotees coming back for more.

Canned beans might seem like a boring pantry item, but Showboat’s delicious flavors and nostalgic comfort have carved out a special place. They’ve become an iconic part of the American food landscape.

From wartime ration kit to backyard BBQ, Showboat beans have nourished generations. Here’s to at least another 100 years of opening the can and enjoying their warm, familiar tastes. Their rich history reminds us that tried-and-true recipes and quality ingredients always have a place on our tables.