History of TV Dinners

Introduction

• TV dinners symbolized the future with compact multi-course meals
• Affordable, quick, and convenient (15 minutes to cook, no dishwashing needed)
• Origin story is complex with multiple parties claiming invention

Early Development

• 1944: William L. Maxson's experiment with frozen cauliflower inspired full meals
  • Invented frozen meals for the Navy: Maxson Sky Plates
  • Meals included meat and vegetables, heated with Maxson Whirlwind oven
• Post-WWII: Maxson rebrands Sky Plates as Strato Meals for civilians

Advancements and Competition

• 1946-1952: Maxson dominates market
• 1952: Quaker State Foods introduces aluminum trays
• Other companies like FrigiDinner enter the market
• 1953: Swanson launches their version of frozen meals

Swanson TV Dinners

• Alleged origin with surplus turkey after Thanksgiving
  • Idea from Jerry Thomas or Swanson brothers (controversial story)
• 1953: Swanson introduces its TV dinner
  • Early success selling 5,000 units, exploding to 10 million by 1954
• 1955: Sold to Campbell Soup Company

Innovations

• 1960s-1970s: Campbell adds a dessert compartment, introduces breakfast options
• 1973: Hungry Man line with larger portions
• 1980s: New contenders like Banquet and Morton
• 1980s: La Menu line with higher-quality meals

Decline and Brand Changes

• 1990s: Health-conscious trends rise
• Campbell fails to adapt; brand sold to Vlasic Foods International in 2001
  • Renamed Pinnacle Foods, later owned by ConAgra Brands
  • Swanson TV dinners now known as Hungry Man

Conclusion

• TV dinners remain a $9 million a year industry
• Historical significance as a symbol of convenience and innovation in food

Discussion Points: Think about your favorite TV dinner and explore other unconventional foods through the Weird History Food Channel.