History of Nestlé

Nestlé was founded in 1866 by Henri Nestlé in Vevey, Switzerland, initially producing infant formula. The company's early focus on digestible, nutritious food for infants contributed to its initial commercial growth. In the late 19th century, Nestlé merged with the Anglo-Swiss Condensed Milk Company, broadening its product base. The introduction of Nescafé in 1938 established Nestlé in the instant coffee market, which became one of its enduring categories.

Over the following decades, Nestlé expanded through acquisition across confectionery, bottled water, pet care, and frozen food categories. Notable brands added to its portfolio include KitKat, Purina, Perrier, and San Pellegrino. The company has faced sustained criticism on several fronts, including the marketing of infant formula in low-income countries — controversies that began in the 1970s and continued into subsequent decades — and concerns about water extraction practices in drought-affected regions.

Nestlé has maintained a significant commercial presence in Israel through its controlling stake in Osem, an Israeli food manufacturer in which Nestlé holds approximately 53.8% ownership. Osem operates multiple production facilities and distributes a range of food products across Israel and internationally. Nestlé's position as majority shareholder of a company operating within Israel has made it a target of boycott campaigns coordinated by Palestinian solidarity organisations.