45 Spam Nutrition Facts

What is Spam?

Spam, the canned meat product, has been a staple in many households since its introduction in 1937. Known for its versatility and long shelf life, Spam has a unique place in culinary history. Here are some fascinating facts about this iconic food.

1. Spam was created by Hormel Foods Corporation in 1937. It was initially marketed as a way to use up pork shoulder, a cut that was not very popular at the time.

2. The name "Spam" is a combination of "spiced" and "ham." The exact origin of the name is still debated, but this is the most widely accepted explanation.

3. Spam played a significant role during World War II. It was a crucial part of soldiers' rations due to its long shelf life and ease of transport.

4. Over 8 billion cans of Spam have been sold worldwide. This number continues to grow as new generations discover its convenience and taste.

5. Spam is available in 44 countries. It's particularly popular in the United States, South Korea, and the Philippines.

6. Hawaii consumes the most Spam per capita. Hawaiians eat an average of 7 million cans of Spam each year.

7. There are 15 different varieties of Spam. These include flavors like Spam with Bacon, Spam with Cheese, and Spam Lite.

8. Spam has its own museum. Located in Austin, Minnesota, the Spam Museum offers a deep dive into the history and cultural impact of this canned meat.

9. Spam is a popular ingredient in many dishes. From Spam musubi in Hawaii to budae jjigae (army stew) in South Korea, it has found its way into various cuisines.

10. Spam is gluten-free. This makes it a suitable option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of Spam can help you make informed dietary choices. Here are some key nutritional facts about Spam.

11. A single serving of Spam is 2 ounces. This is roughly equivalent to 56 grams.

12. One serving of Spam contains 180 calories. This makes it a relatively high-calorie food for its size.

13. Spam has 16 grams of fat per serving. Of this, 6 grams are saturated fat.

14. There are 7 grams of protein in each serving of Spam. This makes it a decent source of protein.

15. Spam contains 790 milligrams of sodium per serving. This is about 33% of the recommended daily intake for sodium.

16. Spam has 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving. This makes it a low-carb food option.

17. Spam contains 40 milligrams of cholesterol per serving. This is about 13% of the recommended daily intake for cholesterol.

18. Spam is rich in vitamins and minerals. It contains small amounts of iron, potassium, and vitamin C.

19. Spam is made from pork shoulder and ham. These are the primary meat ingredients in Spam.

20. Spam also contains water, salt, sugar, and sodium nitrite. These ingredients help preserve the meat and enhance its flavor.

Cultural Impact

Spam has had a significant cultural impact, especially in regions where it has become a culinary staple. Here are some interesting cultural facts about Spam.

21. Spam is a popular gift in South Korea. It's often given during holidays like Chuseok and Lunar New Year.

22. Spam has inspired a musical. "SPAMALOT," a musical comedy based on Monty Python and the Holy Grail, features Spam prominently.

23. Spam is celebrated annually in Hawaii. The Waikiki Spam Jam is a street festival dedicated to all things Spam.

24. Spam is a common ingredient in Filipino cuisine. Dishes like Spam silog (Spam, garlic rice, and fried egg) are popular breakfast options.

25. Spam was featured in a famous Monty Python sketch. The "Spam" sketch humorously highlighted the ubiquity of Spam in British cuisine.

26. Spam has a dedicated fan club. The "SPAM Fan Club" allows enthusiasts to share recipes, stories, and their love for Spam.

27. Spam is used in survival kits. Its long shelf life makes it a practical choice for emergency food supplies.

28. Spam has been sent to space. Astronauts have taken Spam on missions due to its convenience and nutritional value.

29. Spam is a popular camping food. Its ease of preparation and portability make it a favorite among campers.

30. Spam has been featured in various TV shows and movies. Its iconic status has made it a pop culture reference in many forms of media.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and quirky facts about Spam that you might not know.

31. Spam has a mascot named Sir Can-A-Lot. This knight-themed character appears in various marketing materials.

32. Spam is often used in culinary competitions. Chefs create gourmet dishes using Spam as the main ingredient.

33. Spam has a unique jingle. The "Spam Song" is a catchy tune that has been used in advertisements for decades.

34. Spam is sometimes used as a term for unwanted emails. The term "spam" for junk email was inspired by the Monty Python sketch.

35. Spam has been used in art installations. Artists have created sculptures and other works using Spam cans.

36. Spam is a popular ingredient in sushi. Spam musubi, a type of sushi made with Spam, is a beloved snack in Hawaii.

37. Spam has been featured in video games. It has appeared as an item or reference in various games.

38. Spam is a common ingredient in military rations. Its durability and nutritional content make it suitable for soldiers.

39. Spam has been used in science experiments. Researchers have studied its properties for various scientific purposes.

40. Spam is a popular ingredient in breakfast dishes. It can be found in omelets, breakfast burritos, and more.

41. Spam has a distinctive blue and yellow label. This iconic packaging has remained largely unchanged since its introduction.

42. Spam is often used in food drives. Its long shelf life makes it a valuable donation item.

43. Spam has been featured in cookbooks. There are entire cookbooks dedicated to recipes using Spam.

44. Spam is a popular ingredient in casseroles. Its versatility makes it a great addition to various casserole recipes.

45. Spam has a unique texture. Its slightly gelatinous consistency sets it apart from other canned meats.

The Final Bite

Spam's got a lot more going on than you might think. From its nutritional content to its global popularity, this canned meat has a rich history. It's packed with protein, but also comes with a hefty dose of sodium and fat. While it’s not the healthiest option out there, it’s a convenient and tasty choice for many. Whether you love it or hate it, Spam's here to stay. Next time you see that blue can, you’ll know a bit more about what’s inside. So, whether you’re whipping up a quick meal or just curious about its origins, Spam’s got a story worth knowing. Keep these facts in mind, and you’ll appreciate this iconic food a little more.