SPAM Hot Honey Debuts, Dividing Fans with Sweet and Spicy Twist

Hormel Foods has introduced SPAM Hot Honey, the first permanent addition to its canned meat brand's flavor roster in two years. The new variety aims to capitalize on the growing popularity of sweet and spicy, or "swicy," flavor profiles that have seen a surge in grocery stores and restaurant menus.

The company stated that the launch taps into one of today's fastest-growing flavor trends, bringing "fresh excitement" to the nearly 90-year-old brand. SPAM Hot Honey is described as offering a balance of sweetness and heat, appealing to those who enjoy a mix of flavor profiles.

SPAM Hot Honey is now available at select grocery retailers nationwide, joining more than 10 other permanent flavors offered by the brand. To mark the release, Hormel partnered with Win Son Bakery in New York City, featuring two limited-time menu items: a breakfast sandwich and a fan tuan (a Taiwanese sticky rice roll) at its Brooklyn and Manhattan locations through September 20.

Reception to the new flavor has been mixed. Some consumers expressed eagerness to try it, with one Facebook user noting they try every new SPAM variety released. However, others were less enthusiastic. Comments ranged from a preference for the original flavor, with one user stating, "Sweet and Spicy may taste good fried, but I will have to pass," to outright rejection, such as "Absolutely NOT in any flavor!" Another commenter on Reddit voiced fatigue with the ubiquity of the hot honey trend.

The SPAM launch reflects a broader market trend, with numerous chains and brands incorporating hot honey into items like menu offerings, sauces, potato chips, and bacon. This expansion is driven by a perceived consumer demand for "swicy" flavors.

Introduced by Hormel in 1937, SPAM gained significant traction during World War II when it was supplied to Allied troops. The product has since sold over 9 billion cans globally and maintains particular popularity in Hawaii and parts of Asia.