The year 1871 saw some historic moments: Orville Wright was born, the Great Chicago Fire broke out, the first Major League Baseball game was played in America and Stauffer’s, the York, Pennsylvania-based baker of the original animal cracker was founded.
“For the past 150 years, Stauffer’s has been part of families’ snacking fun, and we are extremely proud that we continue to make animal crackers and snacks that America knows and loves,” said Annabelle Lopez, associate product manager at Stauffer’s. “Every day, we receive pictures of grandparents, parents and kids of all ages playing with our animal crackers and spending quality time together. And that’s what fuels us to innovate and keep delivering delicious snacks that provide hours of fun.”
To mark this milestone, Stauffer’s is releasing a limited-edition commemorative bear jug packaging featuring a nostalgic label. The label pays homage to Stauffer’s packaging from the 1800s and pairs it with the iconic bear jug recognized by cracker-loving families. The collectable 150th anniversary bear jugs (original and chocolate) will be available in retailers nationwide early this summer.
The company, founded by David F. Stauffer, has evolved since its humble beginnings, but the company has stayed true to its roots by remaining in its York, Pennsylvania-based headquarters, which has helped Central Pennsylvania become known as the Snack Food Capital of the World. Over the years, the company has added full lines of baked snacks including Ginger Snaps, Whales Baked Cheddar Crackers, seasonal favorites and more – all made in the U.S. Now a division of the Meiji Co. Ltd. of Japan, Stauffer’s products can be found on shelves across the nation.
Stauffer’s continues to innovate by using simple ingredients in its products, and Stauffer’s is looking to go completely peanut-free later this year. Stauffer’s is also looking to use resealable pouches for some of its products, giving customers the convenience of snacking now and saving for later.
“Over the past century and a half, you can imagine the product feedback we have received from our loyal fans and customers,” said Ken Vlazny, SVP of sales and marketing. “And I’m proud to say we have listened as we continue to innovate based on consumers’ needs. Their input is why past and future generations continue to enjoy the beloved animal cracker and our other baked snacks.”
