As America celebrates the start of 2014, Campbell Soup Company (NYSE:CPB) celebrates the 80th birthday of its iconic Campbell’s Condensed Chicken Noodle soup. Originally launched as Campbell’s Condensed ‘Noodle with Chicken’ soup, it was the first soup of its kind and an important innovation for the food industry. For nearly a century it has been a staple in American kitchens and remains one of the top 10 shelf-stable grocery items purchased in the US. Americans purchased more than 200 million cans of Campbell’s Chicken Noodle soup in 2013.
Campbell’s Chicken Noodle soup was created in 1934 by the company’s head chef Ernest Lacoutiere, alongside several other varieties, as a tasty and affordable option. When first introduced the soup sold for between 10 and 12 cents per can and quickly found its way to cupboards and pantries from coast to coast.
‘To this day, each can of Campbell’s Condensed Chicken Noodle soup reflects the same values that went into its creation 80 years ago,’ said Leah Dunmore, Vice President, U.S. Soup, Campbell Soup Company. ‘Everyone knows there’s nothing quite like the feeling of a heart-warming, delicious bowl of Chicken Noodle soup.’
The Story Behind the NameCampbell’s Condensed Chicken Noodle soup has established itself as part of American culture since its introduction 80 years ago. Here are a few of the key milestones that have contributed to its rich heritage:
? In 1934, Campbell set the standard by introducing the famed Noodle with Chicken soup.
? In 1938, Campbell changed the name of its Noodle with Chicken soup. During a broadcast of a popular radio program, one of the famous on-air personalities misread his copy and called the product Chicken Noodle soup. Within days of the slip, Campbell began receiving large orders for its new product as it began flying off store shelves.
? In 1962, renowned artist Andy Warhol painted the wildly popular 32 Campbell’s Soup Cans, which included Chicken Noodle soup, further establishing the brand in pop culture.
To view the evolution of Campbell’s Chicken Noodle soup, including past and present labels, advertisements and slogans like ‘You only have to call them once when there’s Chicken Noodle soup for lunch’ and ’32 feet of noodles in every can’ and ‘When the mouth slurps, the belly smiles,’ visit http://tinyurl.com/HBDChickenNoodle. To learn more about Campbell’s condensed soup products, visit www.campbellsoup.com.
Information provided by the Campbell Soup Company.
