"Spam's reputation in the 21st century isn't exactly sparkling, but there's a reason the canned meat was a staple in days past and remains a prominent ingredient in many cuisines."
"The use of the pork product continued after the 1930s, but it was cemented as a vintage pizza topping in the 1960s, when the company partnered with Kraft to create the Pizzaroo."
"Although Spam eventually became unpopular in the continental United States, American sanctions on Hawaii and a food shortage in Japan made Spam become a go-to protein product on both islands."
"Hawaiian pizza isn't actually a Hawaiian invention, but the tropical flavors certainly taste incredible with Spam instead of the traditional Canadian."
Spam was a popular pizza topping, especially during the 1960s when it was featured in the Pizzaroo recipe. Its affordability made it a staple during the Great Depression. Although its popularity waned in the 1970s in the continental U.S., Spam remains a common topping in Hawaiian and AAPI cuisines. It is still used in limited edition pizzas, such as the Pizza Hut Spam Pizza available in Hawaii in 2025, showcasing its enduring appeal in certain regions.
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