History of Del Monte
Del Monte Foods has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. It originated in 1886 when the California Fruit Canners Association (CFCA) was formed by several West Coast canneries. The 'Del Monte' brand name was first used in 1892 for a premium line of canned peaches, which quickly gained popularity. By the early 20th century, CFCA merged with other food companies to form the California Packing Corporation, later rebranded as Del Monte Corporation in 1967. Over the decades, the company expanded its product range to include canned fruits, vegetables, and pet food, becoming a household name in the U.S. and beyond.
Del Monte has undergone several ownership changes throughout its history. In 1979, it was acquired by R.J. Reynolds, later sold to private investors, and eventually split into different regional businesses. Today, Del Monte Foods primarily operates in North America, while Del Monte International (separately owned) manages operations in other regions. Despite these changes, Del Monte remains a trusted brand known for quality canned and packaged food products, maintaining its legacy of freshness and innovation.