Why Austin, Minnesota Is Affectionately Called SPAMTOWN USA

SPAM may not be loved by all, but it is an important part of American culture and one of its culinary exports to the world (SPAM is found in several Korean dishes like Army Stew).

First sold in 1937, SPAM came at a time when Americans were looking for low-cost meat products, according to maker Hormel Foods. The dish grew in popularity during World War II because of its long shelf live and transportability, which is also how SPAM came to Korea while American military members fought during the Korean War. Made in 15 varieties, SPAM comes in flavors such as Teriyaki and Jalapeño. Per the company, classic SPAM contains six ingredients: pork with ham meat added, salt, water, potato starch, sugar, and sodium nitrite. 

In addition to making SPAM, Hormel Foods is well-known for its other meat products, including deli meats, bacon, and canned chili. It also produces food under other names, such as Dinty Moore, Lloyd's, Applegate, Skippy, and Valley Fresh. With so many products to produce, Hormel Foods employs around 20,000 people around the world, but it's Hormel's hometown of Austin, Minnesota that embraces the company's legacy and its iconic SPAM.

Nicknamed SPAMTOWN USA, residents of Austin, Minnesota are frequently reminded of their city's long history with Hormel Foods: from the SPAM Museum to restaurants with SPAM sandwiches. And it's a connection they have fun with. Hormel Foods was founded in Austin in 1891 by George A. Hormel, and Austin now boasts the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center, Hormel Historic Home, and The Hormel Institute, per Life in Minnesota. 

And let us not forget the SPAM Museum which has 14,000 square feet dedicated to the canned meat. People can visit for free and learn about SPAM's history, as well as shop in its gift store, according to its website. Reader's Digest describes the SPAM Museum as being full of puns, SPAM samples, and fun activities.

Even an Austin paddle-wheel boat got named the "Spamtown Belle" and would carry people around East Side Lake; however, due to a need for repairs, it was taken out of service, according to the Austin Daily Herald. While riding a boat with the name Spamtown Belle can no longer be on your itinerary to Austin, many restaurants serve SPAM (via Twin Cities Pioneer Press). 

At B&J Bar and Grill you'll find SPAM and pineapple sliders as well as SPAM sandwiches served with lettuce, onion, and tomato on the menu. Alternatively, enjoy a pizza with SPAM and pineapple at George's Pizza. Just remember that when you visit SPAMTOWN USA, have fun hamming it up.