If you’re from New Jersey, chances are you’ve had a pork roll, egg, and cheese sandwich at some point in your life.
But have you ever stopped to wonder where that delicious pork roll comes from?
While Taylor and Case are the most well-known brands, there are actually several companies that produce this beloved mystery meat.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of pork roll and explore who makes the pork roll found in Shoprite stores.
Get ready to discover some surprising facts about this iconic New Jersey food.
Who Makes Shoprite Pork Roll?
Shoprite is a popular supermarket chain in New Jersey, and their private label brand of pork roll is a fan favorite. But who actually makes this pork roll?
After some research, we discovered that the pork roll found in Shoprite stores is made by Case’s Pork Roll. This family-owned company has been producing pork roll since 1870 in Trenton, NJ.
Case’s Pork Roll is best known for their flavorful pork roll, which can be found in Local 152 union stores, including Shoprite’s private label brand.
The company produces both a tangy and mild version of their pork roll, but it’s unclear which one is used in Shoprite stores.
It’s worth noting that there are several other companies that produce pork roll, including Taylor Provisions (the original brand), Kohler Provisions, Loeffler Gourmet, Alderfer, Hatfield Quality Meats, and Johnston’s House Brand Pork Roll.
While Case’s Pork Roll is the supplier for Shoprite’s private label brand, it’s always worth trying out different brands to find your personal favorite.
The History Of Pork Roll In New Jersey
Pork roll, also known as Taylor ham, is a processed meat that has become a staple in New Jersey cuisine. Its origins can be traced back to the late 19th century when John Taylor of Trenton, New Jersey, developed the product. He sold it as “Taylor’s Prepared Ham” until 1906 when food labeling regulations required him and other manufacturers to label it as “pork roll.” However, people in northern New Jersey still call it Taylor ham.
The early history of pork roll is unclear, but it’s possible that it has origins in the Revolutionary War at the Battle of Trenton. However, pork roll’s official history begins in 1856 when John Taylor created it in Trenton. Taylor wasn’t the only one making pork roll, though. In 1870, farmer and butcher George Washington Case developed his recipe and packaged it in corn husks.
Despite North Jersey insisting pork roll should be called Taylor ham, regardless of the actual brand, Taylor was forced to change his product’s name when the Pure Food and Drug Act passed in 1906. He rechristened it as pork roll, but in North Jersey, the old name stuck. Even though New Jerseyans can’t agree on what to call it, they all agree that pork roll, egg, and cheese is a uniquely New Jersey item that has captured the imagination of the state’s residents.
Today, several companies produce pork roll, including Taylor Provisions (the original brand), Kohler Provisions, Loeffler Gourmet, Alderfer, Hatfield Quality Meats, Johnston’s House Brand Pork Roll, and Case’s Pork Roll. Case’s Pork Roll is best known for their flavorful pork roll and is the supplier for Shoprite’s private label brand.
The Different Brands Of Pork Roll
There are several different brands of pork roll available in New Jersey and neighboring Pennsylvania. Taylor Provisions is the original brand, founded in 1939 and still producing their pork roll under the Taylor and Trenton brands. Case’s Pork Roll, founded in 1870, is another well-known brand that produces both tangy and mild versions of their pork roll. Other smaller producers include Spolem Provisions (branded as Loeffler’s Gourmet), Mercer Meats, Clemens Food Group (as Hatfield), Leidys (as Leidy’s and Alderfer), and Rob-Dave Distributors (as Johnston). It’s worth noting that Hatfield and Alderfer’s products are specifically labeled as “Pork Roll Sausage” due to food labeling laws. Loeffler Gourmet is a small business that got into selling pork roll in 2003 and has since contracted with 300 of New Jersey’s school districts for supply. There is also an industry of delivering pork roll by mail order from New Jersey to other states, with companies such as “The Taylor Ham Man,” “Jersey Pork Roll,” and “Case’s Pork Roll Store.” Overall, while there are several different brands to choose from, pork roll remains a beloved New Jersey delicacy.
The Production Process Of Shoprite Pork Roll
The production process of Shoprite pork roll begins at Case’s Pork Roll factory in Trenton, NJ. The company uses ham trimmings and seasoning to make their pork roll, with no fillers added. The meat is loaded into bags that look like long tubes and then sent to a giant smoker that uses hickory chips. This smoking process gives the pork roll its signature hickory flavor.
Case’s Pork Roll has a staff of 40 people who work tirelessly to produce 5 million pounds of pork roll each year. However, due to the increasing demand for their product, the company is adding another slicing line to double their production.
The company has been around since 1870 and has been using the same traditional production methods for over a century. They take pride in the quality of their product and their commitment to providing customers with a delicious breakfast treat.
Once the pork roll is produced, it is distributed to various retailers, including Shoprite stores. Shoprite then packages the pork roll under their private label brand and sells it in their stores.
The Quality And Taste Of Shoprite Pork Roll
When it comes to the quality and taste of Shoprite’s pork roll, customers can expect a delicious and satisfying experience. Made by Case’s Pork Roll, this pork roll is known for its rich flavor and texture.
The pork roll is made from high-quality pork, salt, sugar, and spices, which are all carefully blended together to create a unique and savory taste. The meat is then formed into a cylindrical shape and smoked to perfection.
Customers have noted that Shoprite’s pork roll has a slightly tangy flavor, which is likely due to the spices used in the recipe. The texture is also noteworthy, as it’s both firm and tender at the same time.
One of the best things about Shoprite’s pork roll is its versatility. It can be served in a variety of ways, including as a breakfast meat, in sandwiches, or even on pizza. Its delicious taste makes it a popular choice for any meal of the day.
Pork Roll Recipes To Try At Home
If you’re a fan of pork roll or just curious about this New Jersey delicacy, here are some delicious recipes to try at home:
1. Pork Roll Breakfast Sandwich: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cut a single notch from the center to the edge of a stack of pork roll slices. Lay the slices in the skillet and fry until browned on both sides. Set aside. Toast an English muffin and spread with butter. Add a fried egg, a slice of American cheese, and the cooked pork roll slices. Top with ketchup or hot sauce, if desired.
2. Pork Roll Grilled Cheese: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cut a single notch from the center to the edge of a stack of pork roll slices. Lay the slices in the skillet and fry until browned on both sides. Set aside. Butter two slices of bread and place one slice in the skillet, butter side down. Add a slice of American cheese, the cooked pork roll slices, and another slice of American cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, butter side up. Cook until golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted.
3. Pork Roll Burger: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Form ground beef into patties and season with salt and pepper. Grill until cooked to your desired doneness. Top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese and a slice of cooked pork roll. Serve on a bun with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite condiments.
4. Pork Roll Pizza: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Roll out pizza dough and spread with tomato sauce. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced pork roll, sliced mushrooms, and sliced onions. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
These recipes are just a few examples of how versatile pork roll can be in the kitchen. So next time you’re at Shoprite or any other grocery store in New Jersey, grab some pork roll and get creative in the kitchen!
