Fact: Hawaii Loves Spam

As if spam did not have enough of a branding challenge to overcome being referred to as ‘mystery meat’ and ‘pork by-product’ the digital age’s definition is abuse of electronic messaging system. Fortunately for Hormel Foods Corporation, according to a 2004 report, Hawaii consumes more than 7 million cans per year!

What brought on this affinity for the block of meat in a blue and yellow can?

Spam was first introduced to the islands during World War II as a ration for military personnel. As it still is today, nearly everything is imported into the State of Hawaii, and during the war since it was difficult to import fresh meat, residents began dining on the military’s surplus.

With the same creativity harnessed in lei making, local families concocted spam recipes that have converted naysayers to appreciate a slice of the salty flavored meat. The most popular dish is the Japanese infused spam musubi. People build their musubi differently adding their personal touch, but I recommend the generous sized musubi from K S Market on Middle Street for only a buck!

For the seventh year in a row, the newly formed SJ Foundation, a 501(c)(3) entity produced Spam Jam Waikiki. Local restaurants set up booths along Kalakaua Avenue, serving their signature dishes adorned with the meat of the evening. Toursits and residents mingled up and down the pavement serenaded by the music of musicians like John Cruz, Kapena, and the hula dancing of Kuhai Halau O Kahalepuna Pa Olapa Kahiko.

In the hometown of Hormel’s headquarters, Austin, MN; residents celebrate a week long carnival of Spam Jam every first week of July. Spamarama takes place annually down south in Austin, TX as a cook off to find the best tasting spam dish. Does your town host a spam jam?

Spam is an acquired taste, but if you’re not a committed vegetarian, vegan, or raw foodie; on your next visit to Hawaii try a spam musubi. Or, if you don’t have immediate plans, find a Hawaii ex-pat and have them cook you a batch.

Have a spam experience or recipe, we’d love to hear from you.

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