History of Philadelphia Cream Cheese

Philadelphia Cream Cheese, a well-known brand of cream cheese, has a rich history dating back to 1872. It was created by William Lawrence, a dairyman from Chester, New York, who was attempting to make Neufchâtel, a French cheese. Instead, he accidentally developed a creamier, richer cheese by adding cream to the recipe. This new creation was named 'Philadelphia' because, at the time, the city was synonymous with high-quality food products. The product quickly gained popularity, and by 1880, the name Philadelphia Cream Cheese was trademarked.

Over the years, the brand evolved and expanded under different ownership. In 1928, Kraft Foods acquired Philadelphia Cream Cheese, further solidifying its place in American households. The brand has continued to innovate, offering various flavors and formats, such as whipped and spreadable options. Today, Philadelphia Cream Cheese is owned by Mondelēz International, following Kraft's spin-off of its snack division in 2012. Despite the changes in ownership, Philadelphia Cream Cheese remains a beloved staple in kitchens around the world.