Who Makes Showboat Pork and Beans? The Story Behind This Classic Canned Bean Brand

Showboat pork and beans are a pantry staple in many American households. With their rich, sweet tomato sauce and tender chunks of pork, these canned beans have been satisfying families for over 90 years. But who exactly makes this iconic product? The story behind Showboat pork and beans reveals a fascinating history.

Bush Brothers – The Company Behind Showboat

Showboat pork and beans are produced by Bush Brothers & Company, a family-owned corporation based in Knoxville Tennessee. Bush Brothers was founded in 1908 by A.J. Bush and his two sons Fred and Claude. Originally just a tomato cannery the company expanded into canning other vegetables as well as meats like pork and beans.

In 1933, Bush Brothers introduced their “Chestnut Hill” branded pork and beans. The success of this product led to a contract with Armour and Company to produce a line of canned meats. Building on this early canned bean expertise, Bush’s launched their Showboat brand pork and beans in the 1950s.

Showboat Hits Shelves and Becomes a Hit

Bush’s introduced Showboat Pork and Beans in Tomato Sauce in 1952. The product was an immediate success Housewives appreciated the convenience and hearty flavor of these canned beans. A 15 oz can could be easily heated up to serve as a quick protein-packed side at any meal

Within a year, Bush’s added Mexican Style Beans in Chili Gravy to the Showboat lineup. Canned beans experienced a major boost in popularity during the 1970s. The Showboat brand was well-positioned to capitalize on this trend thanks to their affordable price and wide distribution.

Today Showboat remains one of Bush Brothers’ top selling products. It makes up a key part of their over $400 million in annual sales.

Why Showboat Became So Popular

There are several reasons why Showboat beans have maintained such long-lasting appeal among consumers

• Nostalgic taste – Many adults fondly remember Showboat beans from family meals growing up. The sweet, tomatoey flavor provokes nostalgia.

• Convenience – As a shelf-stable canned product, Showboat beans require no prep work. You can quickly heat and eat them whenever a mealtime side is needed.

• Affordability – Priced under $1 per can at most major retailers, Showboat beans offer an inexpensive source of protein.

• Wide availability – Showboat beans can be found at most grocery stores across the United States. Their accessibility makes them a go-to pantry staple.

• Nutritional value – While high in sodium, Showboat beans still offer protein, fiber, iron, and other nutrients. They can be a healthy choice in moderation.

How Showboat Beans Are Made

The process behind Showboat pork and beans gives them their distinctive flavor and texture. Bush Brothers starts by soaking navy beans to rehydrate them. Next, the plumped beans are cooked along with cured pork, tomatoes, sugar, spices, and a secret blend of seasonings. This mixture simmers in large kettles before being sealed into cans. The cans are then sterilized by heating to destroy any bacteria.

To achieve the signature Showboat taste, Bush’s carefully selects the ingredients. They cure their own pork to give the beans a smoky, robust flavor. Vine-ripened tomatoes and brown sugar balance out the savory pork. And their proprietary spice blend adds complexity.

Keeping a Classic Product Relevant

While Showboat pork and beans have a retro feel, Bush Brothers has evolved the brand over time. They now offer lower-sodium and vegetarian varieties to appeal to modern health trends. But they’ve retained the core Showboat flavors that generations of bean lovers grew up enjoying.

Through smart marketing and product innovations, Bush’s has kept Showboat relevant. Their TV commercials touting the brand’s “Cured, Sweet, and Seasoned Just Right” taste attract new consumers. And their recipe ideas showcase how Showboat beans can be incorporated into trendy dishes like burritos bowls and chili.

For over 90 years, Showboat pork and beans have had a place on American tables. Thanks to Bush Brothers’ careful stewardship, it looks like they’ll stay there for decades to come. The story behind this humble can of beans is one of sound marketing, quality production, and appealing to consumers’ appetite for comfort food. Showboat beans are a testament to the power of giving people more of the flavors they crave.