Do They Still Make Bunker Hill Beef And Gravy? The Full Story

Bunker Hill beef and gravy has a special place in the hearts and stomachs of many. This classic canned meat product known for its savory and comforting flavor has been around since the 1930s. But in recent years, there’s been some uncertainty around whether this beloved item is still being made.

In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the history of Bunker Hill beef and gravy to find out if you can still get your hands on a can of this tasty classic.

A Look Back at Bunker Hill Foods

Bunker Hill Foods started out small – founded as a co-op focused on artisanal cheese in Ohio in 1935. Over the years, the company expanded into canned meat products, with their beef and gravy becoming one of their most popular items.

In the early 2000s, Bunker Hill Foods was acquired by a larger meat processing company called The Smithfield Companies Inc Under this new ownership, Bunker Hill continued churning out their signature beef and gravy product.

However, things took a turn in 2007 when the company issued a major recall on 30,000 cans of the original beef and gravy. This was due to processing issues that could cause serious illness if the product was consumed.

Ownership Changes Lead to Uncertainty

The 2007 recall was a huge blow to Bunker Hill Foods. On the heels of this crisis, the company was sold to Castleberry/Snow’s Brands Inc. – a Georgia-based canned meat producer.

Unfortunately, in 2010, Castleberry/Snow’s also faced a widespread product recall due to potential botulism contamination across their canned meat line.

Since these recalls, it’s been unclear if anyone is still producing Bunker Hill’s iconic beef and gravy product. Back in 1998, The Smithfield Companies announced plans to sell the Bunker Hill division for $12.9 million. However, it’s not confirmed whether that sale went through.

• 2007: Bunker Hill Foods issues major recall, gets sold to Castleberry/Snow’s
• 2010: Castleberry/Snow’s recalls products due to botulism concerns
• Uncertain if anyone still making Bunker Hill beef and gravy today

This murky history has left fans of this classic product wondering if it’s still possible to enjoy Bunker Hill’s signature flavor.

The Hunt to Find Bunker Hill Beef and Gravy Today

With all the uncertainty around who owns the Bunker Hill brand today, tracking down their original beef and gravy product can prove tricky.

A few tips if you’re still hoping to score a can of this elusive meaty grail:

• Check the canned meat section carefully at any grocery stores in your area for a potentially dusty can hiding on the shelves

• Search online sites like eBay or Etsy to see if anyone is reselling old cans

• Look for any updated announcements from The Smithfield Companies or Castleberry/Snow’s around the status of Bunker Hill Foods

• Call or email the companies above to try to get info straight from the source

• Check expiration dates and embossed codes closely if you do find any cans to ensure safety

• Consider alternatives like Libby’s or homemade beef stew for a similar flavor

While it may take some sleuthing, some steadfast Bunker Hill fans surely won’t rest until they unravel the mystery of whether you can still enjoy this cherished blast from the past.

Why Bunker Hill Beef and Gravy Was So Popular

Before we resign ourselves to a world without Bunker Hill’s signature product, let’s take a moment to appreciate why this beef and gravy combo gained such a loyal following in its heyday.

Straightforward, honest flavor – Made with simple ingredients like beef, broth, flour, and seasonings, Bunker Hill captured the hearty, savory flavor people expect from a classic beef gravy. No artificial flavors or lab-created chemical taste here.

Convenience – As a canned, shelf-stable product, Bunker Hill’s beef and gravy was there whenever you needed it. Easy to stock up on and ready to eat after just a quick stove-top heating.

Comfort food appeal – Warm, meaty, and saucy, this item hit all the notes of a satisfying comfort food. Perfectly paired with mashed potatoes or biscuits for a homey meal.

Vintage nostalgia – For those who grew up eating this product, it often brings back happy memories of family dinners or cooking with grandparents who also enjoyed Bunker Hill beef and gravy.

Made in the USA – As an Ohio-based company using meat from American cattle, Bunker Hill beef and gravy was an all-American product people felt good about supporting.

Could This Comfort Food Make a Comeback?

Bunker Hill’s ride has been anything but smooth sailing lately. However, the well-loved brand still seems to hold equity and affinity among canned meat aficionados.

If someone reignited production, a comeback seems plausible. Leaning into the product’s nostalgia factor while modernizing packaging and marketing could resonate with millennials craving retro brands. Applying supply chain lessons learned to prevent another recall would also be critical.

While Bunker Hill Beef and Gravy’s fate remains unknown, one thing’s for certain – once a brand earns a spot in people’s hearts and kitchens, that loyal love lasts forever. So here’s hoping this comforting classic gets the second chance it deserves.