What’s SPAM, really — and what goes into it?

However, processed meat is generally something nutrition experts recommend eating in moderation rather than making it a major part of your everyday diet.

Is SPAM Safe to Eat?

When produced, stored, and prepared according to the manufacturer’s instructions, commercially canned SPAM is designed to be safe to eat.

The key is paying attention to the condition of the can.

Avoid cans that are badly swollen, leaking, severely rusted, or damaged around the seams.

After opening, refrigerate unused portions and follow the storage guidance on the label.

Why Do People Love It?

SPAM’s popularity isn’t just about convenience.

It is inexpensive, easy to prepare, and remarkably versatile.

You can:

  • Fry slices until crispy.
  • Add it to fried rice.
  • Put it in sandwiches.
  • Serve it with eggs.
  • Dice it into noodles.
  • Add it to soups and stews.
  • Grill or pan-sear it.
  • Use it in rice bowls.

In several parts of the world, SPAM has even become an important part of local food culture.

The Name Has a Famous Origin

The name “SPAM” has been the subject of plenty of speculation over the years.

Hormel has said the name was coined through a company-sponsored naming contest, with the winning name being SPAM.

The exact meaning behind the word isn’t what makes the product interesting, though.