What is SPAM And What Is It Made of, Anyway

What Is SPAM—and What Is It Made Of, Anyway?

Few foods have inspired as much curiosity, confusion, and cult-like devotion as SPAM. Whether you’ve grown up eating it straight from the can, frying it up for breakfast, or encountering it in a sushi roll, SPAM is one of those iconic products that sparks conversation—often starting with, “Wait…what is SPAM, exactly?”

Let’s break it down: what is SPAM, what’s in it, and why has it remained so popular for nearly a century?

So, What Is SPAM?

SPAM is a brand of canned cooked pork made by Hormel Foods, first introduced in 1937. While it often gets lumped into the category of mystery meat, SPAM’s ingredient list is surprisingly short and straightforward.

According to Hormel, classic SPAM contains just six ingredients:

Pork with Ham

Salt

Water

Modified Potato Starch (used as a binder)

Sugar

Sodium Nitrite (a preservative)

That’s it.

Contrary to urban legends and running jokes, there are no unpronounceable chemicals or questionable animal parts hiding inside. The “pork with ham” refers to pork shoulder meat (a flavorful, affordable cut) combined with ham meat from the hind leg.

Why Is It Called SPAM?

There’s been much speculation, but the most widely accepted theory is that “SPAM” stands for “Spiced Ham.” Hormel itself has leaned into the mystery over the years, adding to the fun. According to company lore, the name was chosen in a naming contest and has stuck ever since.

Why Did SPAM Become So Popular?

SPAM exploded in popularity during World War II, when it was shipped to troops overseas due to its long shelf life, portability, and high protein content. It became a staple in military rations and quickly found its way into civilian kitchens.

After the war, SPAM remained popular in many parts of the world—especially in places like:

Hawaii, where it’s beloved and featured in dishes like Spam musubi (SPAM and rice wrapped in seaweed)

South Korea, where it’s used in budae jjigae (Army stew)

The Philippines, Guam, and parts of the Pacific, where it’s often served with rice and eggs

Is SPAM Good for You?

SPAM is high in sodium and fat, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. That said, it’s a source of protein and can be part of a balanced meal when used thoughtfully. Like many processed meats, it’s not a health food—but it’s not quite the villain it’s sometimes made out to be, either.

Modern Takes on a Classic