History of Corned beef in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 22, 2025

Corned beef is salt-cured beef brisket, named for the large salt grains ("corns") used in its preparation. Sugar and spices are sometimes added. It's an ingredient in various cuisines.

1901: Corned beef popularity in the Philippines

In 1901, during the American colonial period, corned beef, especially the Libby's brand, became popular among wealthy Filipinos as a luxury food.

1941: Corned beef popularity in the Philippines

During the American colonial period of the Philippines corned beef, especially the Libby's brand, was popular among wealthy Filipinos as a luxury food.

1942: Corned beef during World War II

During World War II in 1942, American soldiers brought corned beef to the Philippines, and airdropped it. It was a life-or-death commodity due to the Japanese Imperial Army's control over food.

1943: Corned beef exports from Fray Bentos

In 1943, over 16 million cans of corned beef were exported from Fray Bentos in Uruguay during the Second World War.

1945: Corned beef during World War II

During World War II ending in 1945, American soldiers brought corned beef to the Philippines, and airdropped it. It was a life-or-death commodity due to the Japanese Imperial Army's control over food.

1946: Increased popularity of corned beef

After the war, beginning in 1946, corned beef gained far more popularity in the Philippines. It remains a staple in balikbayan boxes and on Filipino breakfast tables.

1992: Sociopolitical effect of corned beef

In 1992, Jeremy Rifkin noted the sociopolitical effect of corned beef in the British Isles during the early modern period in his book Beyond Beef: The Rise and Fall of the Cattle Culture.