pepperidge farm: 75 years of snacks and smiles

Few brands can be known and symbolized by one, simple household word.

Goldfish.

You know just what…and who…I’m talking about, don’t you? If you have littles running around, you’ve no doubt at one time or other (or now) have had these happy little treats in your cupboards.

Did you know that it all began with a humble loaf of bread? Pepperidge Farm founder Margaret Rudkin baked the pioneering loaves in her rural Connecticut kitchen in 1937 to address her son’s allergy to common preservatives. Margaret’s simple recipe is the origin of a flourishing business celebrating its 75th anniversary this year.

Pepperidge Farm’s heritage is very much alive today. The company, founded on a mother’s love for her son, continues the mission to deliver the very best products…from wholesome fresh bakery items to must-have snacks. Here’s some fun facts…

On August 15, 1937, the first “official” loaf of Pepperidge Farm all natural, whole grain bread was sold in a store for 25 cents.
Pepperidge Farm® Goldfish crackers were originally made and marketed in Switzerland as “Goldfish Tiny Crackers” before being brought to the U.S. by Margaret Rudkin in 1962.
The late Julia Child used to love to serve Goldfish crackers as an appetizer before dinner. Love that.
Pepperidge Farm is opening its 34,000-square-foot Innovation Center this Fall at the company’s headquarters in Norwalk, CT. How fun would that be to tour?
Pepperidge Farm employs more than 5,000 people and operates plants in nine towns

The company has unveiled some new goodies to celebrate 75 years of snacking goodness…

Jingos! – Featuring bold flavor and a snappy crunch, these brand new snack crackers are available in three varieties: Zesty Lime & Sweet Chili, Savory Parmesan Garlic (this one is my fave!), and Smoky Fiesta Cheddar. The consensus among the 18 and under crowd (including some friends from school…) was that the Smoky Fiesta Cheddar took the gold.
Milano Slices and Milano Melts – The iconic Milano cookie family expands with open-faced Milano Slices in Salted Pretzel – a temptingly crunchy combination of sweet and salty flavors. Also new…Milano Melts Vanilla Crème – a crispy, chocolaty cookie with a velvety filling. Simply irresistible.

I was lucky enough to review these fun new snacks thanks to Mom Spark Media. The Jingos! didnt last long in this house. (I know you’re not surprised). My boys are nothing if not snackers. And the Milanos…well. We wont go into how quickly those were gobbled up. There’s just nothing like coffee and Milanos.