The name “C. W. Post” evokes images of classic American breakfast tables, filled with the clinking of spoons against bowls and the comforting taste of wholesome grains. But in a rapidly changing food landscape, a pertinent question arises: Do they still make C. W. Post cereal? This article delves into the history of C. W. Post, examines the current cereal offerings under the Post brand, and explores where you can find these iconic breakfast staples today.
A Brief History of C. W. Post and His Breakfast Empire
Charles William Post was more than just a cereal magnate; he was a visionary entrepreneur who revolutionized the American breakfast. Born in 1854, Post initially pursued various business ventures before finding his niche in the burgeoning health food industry.
The Birth of Postum and Grape-Nuts
In the late 19th century, Post suffered from severe health problems. While seeking treatment at a health spa in Battle Creek, Michigan, run by Dr. John Harvey Kellogg (of Kellogg’s fame), he became inspired by the potential of grain-based foods. Leaving the spa, Post ventured out to create his own health food empire. His first major product was Postum, a grain-based beverage designed as a coffee substitute. It became incredibly popular, capitalizing on anxieties about the perceived ill effects of caffeine.
Following Postum, C. W. Post introduced his first ready-to-eat cereal, Grape-Nuts, in 1897. This unique cereal, made from wheat and barley, was initially marketed as a health food promoting “brain and nerve nourishment.” Its crunchy texture and distinctive flavor quickly garnered a devoted following. Grape-Nuts’ staying power is a testament to Post’s ingenuity, as it remains on store shelves to this day.
Expanding the Post Cereal Lineup
C. W. Post didn’t stop at Grape-Nuts. He continued to innovate and expand his cereal offerings. One of his most successful creations was Post Toasties, introduced in 1904. These crispy corn flakes directly challenged Kellogg’s Corn Flakes and quickly became a household staple.
Post’s marketing prowess was as significant as his product development. He was an early adopter of aggressive advertising tactics, utilizing print ads, billboards, and promotional campaigns to build brand awareness and drive sales.
The Legacy of C. W. Post
C. W. Post passed away in 1914, but his legacy lived on through his company, which continued to produce and market his successful cereal brands. The Postum Cereal Company eventually evolved into General Foods Corporation, becoming a major player in the food industry. The name “Post” remained synonymous with quality and innovation in the cereal aisle.
Post Cereals Today: Ownership and Current Offerings
While the Post name is still widely recognized, the ownership and structure of the company behind the cereals have changed significantly over the years. Understanding these changes helps clarify the current landscape of Post cereal products.
From General Foods to Post Holdings
Over the decades, General Foods underwent various mergers and acquisitions. In 2008, the Post cereal division was spun off as an independent company called Post Foods, LLC. This marked a return to the focus on cereal that C. W. Post had originally established. Later, Post Foods became part of a larger holding company named Post Holdings, Inc.
Post Holdings is a consumer packaged goods holding company with a diverse portfolio of brands, including not only cereals but also refrigerated side dishes, egg products, protein shakes, and more. The cereal division remains a significant part of their overall business.
Popular Post Cereals Available Now
Despite the corporate changes, many classic Post cereals continue to be manufactured and sold. Some of the most popular and widely available Post cereals include:
- Grape-Nuts: The original C. W. Post creation remains a breakfast staple.
- Honey Bunches of Oats: This popular cereal, known for its clusters and oat flakes, comes in various flavors and is a consistent bestseller.
- Pebbles Cereal: Fruity Pebbles and Cocoa Pebbles, known for their association with The Flintstones cartoon, are still widely enjoyed by children and adults alike.
- Great Grains: This line of cereals focuses on whole grains and natural ingredients, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
- Shredded Wheat: Another classic cereal offering a simple and wholesome breakfast option.
It’s important to note that product availability can vary depending on geographic location and retailer. While these cereals are generally found in most major supermarkets, some regional or specialty stores may carry a wider selection or different variations.
Discontinued Post Cereals: A Look Back
While many Post cereals have stood the test of time, others have been discontinued over the years due to changing consumer preferences, production costs, or other market factors. Some notable discontinued Post cereals include:
- Post Toasties: While a significant cereal for many years, Post Toasties have been discontinued.
- Alpha-Bits: Discontinued but recently revived and rereleased in stores.
- Honeycomb: While originally a Post cereal, the rights to produce and sell the cereal were sold to Ralston Purina.
The discontinuation of these cereals often evokes nostalgia among consumers who remember them fondly from their childhood. Online petitions and social media campaigns sometimes arise, advocating for the return of beloved discontinued cereals, demonstrating the enduring emotional connection people have with these breakfast icons.
Where to Buy Post Cereals: Finding Your Favorite Brands
Finding your favorite Post cereals is generally quite easy, as they are widely distributed across various retail channels. However, availability can vary depending on the specific cereal and your location.
Major Supermarkets and Grocery Stores
The most common place to find Post cereals is in major supermarkets and grocery stores. Chains like Walmart, Kroger, Safeway, and Publix typically carry a wide selection of Post cereals, including Grape-Nuts, Honey Bunches of Oats, Pebbles, and Great Grains.
It’s advisable to check the cereal aisle of your local grocery store to see what varieties are currently in stock. Many stores also offer online ordering and pickup or delivery services, allowing you to conveniently purchase your favorite Post cereals from the comfort of your home.
Online Retailers
In addition to brick-and-mortar stores, online retailers offer a convenient way to purchase Post cereals. Amazon, for example, carries a wide range of Post cereal products, often with competitive pricing and convenient shipping options.
Other online retailers, such as Target.com and Walmart.com, also offer Post cereals for purchase online. Shopping online allows you to compare prices, read customer reviews, and easily find less common or specialty Post cereal varieties.
Specialty and Discount Stores
While major supermarkets and online retailers are the primary sources for Post cereals, you may also find them in specialty and discount stores. Stores like Dollar General, Dollar Tree, and Big Lots often carry a selection of Post cereals at discounted prices.
Specialty food stores, such as those focusing on natural or organic products, may also carry certain Post cereal varieties, particularly those in the Great Grains line, which emphasizes whole grains and natural ingredients.
Checking Availability and Promotions
Before heading out to the store or placing an online order, it’s always a good idea to check the availability of the specific Post cereal you’re looking for. Many retailers offer online tools that allow you to check the stock levels at your local stores.
Also, be sure to look for promotional offers and discounts on Post cereals. Retailers often run sales and promotions on breakfast cereals, so you may be able to save money by taking advantage of these deals. Checking store flyers, websites, and coupon apps can help you find the best prices on your favorite Post cereals.
The Future of Post Cereals: Innovation and Consumer Trends
The cereal industry is constantly evolving, driven by changing consumer preferences, health trends, and competitive pressures. To remain relevant and successful, Post Holdings continues to innovate and adapt its cereal offerings.
Focus on Health and Wellness
A major trend in the food industry is the increasing consumer demand for healthier options. People are more conscious of the ingredients in their food and are seeking out products that are lower in sugar, higher in fiber, and made with whole grains.
Post Holdings has responded to this trend by introducing new cereal varieties that cater to health-conscious consumers. The Great Grains line, for example, emphasizes whole grains, nuts, and seeds, offering a nutritious and satisfying breakfast option. Post also offers variations of its popular cereals with reduced sugar content.
Embracing New Flavors and Formats
In addition to health and wellness, consumers are also looking for exciting new flavors and formats in their cereals. Post Holdings has been experimenting with different flavor combinations and innovative cereal shapes to appeal to a wider range of tastes.
Limited-edition cereal flavors tied to popular movies, television shows, or holidays have become increasingly popular. These limited-time offerings generate buzz and excitement among consumers, driving sales and brand awareness.
Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
Another growing trend is the focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental and social impact of the products they buy.
Post Holdings is taking steps to address these concerns by implementing sustainable sourcing practices and reducing its environmental footprint. They are also working to ensure that their products are made with ethically sourced ingredients.
The Enduring Appeal of Nostalgia
While innovation is important, the enduring appeal of nostalgia should not be underestimated. Many consumers have strong emotional connections to classic cereal brands that they grew up with. Post Holdings recognizes this and continues to produce and market its iconic cereals like Grape-Nuts and Pebbles, capitalizing on the nostalgic memories they evoke.
In conclusion, Post cereals are still widely available. While some specific varieties have been discontinued over the years, many classic and popular Post cereals continue to be manufactured and sold under the Post Holdings umbrella. These cereals can be found in major supermarkets, online retailers, and specialty stores. Post Holdings is also adapting to changing consumer preferences by introducing new and healthier cereal options while maintaining the legacy of its iconic brands. So, the next time you’re craving a bowl of Grape-Nuts or Honey Bunches of Oats, rest assured that you can still find these breakfast staples on store shelves.
Do they still make all C.W. Post cereals?
No, not all of the cereals originally created by C.W. Post are still in production today. Over the years, Post Consumer Brands has discontinued many of its original cereal offerings due to evolving consumer preferences, changing market demands, and internal business decisions. While some iconic cereals remain, the product lineup has been significantly altered from the early days of Post.
The decision to discontinue a cereal often involves analyzing sales performance, production costs, and overall profitability. Cereals that no longer meet certain thresholds in these areas are typically retired to make room for new products or to streamline operations. Therefore, many of the original, lesser-known C.W. Post creations are no longer available on store shelves.
Which Post cereals are still widely available today?
Several popular Post cereals continue to be widely available in grocery stores across the United States and internationally. These include well-known brands like Grape-Nuts, Honey Bunches of Oats, Pebbles (Fruity Pebbles and Cocoa Pebbles), and Honeycomb. These cereals have proven their enduring appeal and maintained a strong presence in the breakfast market.
These surviving cereals owe their longevity to factors such as successful marketing campaigns, consistent recipe quality, and their ability to adapt to changing consumer tastes while retaining their core identities. They also often benefit from brand recognition and a loyal customer base that has supported them for decades.
What happened to Postum, a popular C.W. Post beverage?
Postum, a grain-based coffee substitute, was a successful product created by C.W. Post and was a popular alternative for those seeking to avoid caffeine. However, its popularity has significantly waned over the years, reflecting changing consumer habits and preferences for caffeinated beverages and other coffee substitutes.
Production and availability of Postum have been sporadic. While there have been periods where it was discontinued and then brought back due to consumer demand, its presence on the market has been inconsistent. Checking with specific retailers or online sources is the best way to determine its current availability.
Are discontinued Post cereals ever brought back?
Yes, there have been instances where Post Consumer Brands has brought back discontinued cereals, often as limited-time offerings or due to significant consumer demand and nostalgia. This practice allows the company to capitalize on the emotional connection that consumers have with these cereals and generate renewed interest.
These comebacks are often driven by social media campaigns, petitions, or other forms of public expression demanding the return of a beloved cereal. While not all discontinued cereals are revived, the possibility remains, depending on the perceived market opportunity and the level of consumer enthusiasm.
Where can I find rare or discontinued Post cereals?
Finding rare or discontinued Post cereals can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Online marketplaces like eBay and specialty retailers that focus on retro or vintage products can sometimes be a source for these elusive cereals. However, be prepared to pay a premium due to their rarity and collector’s value.
It’s also worth exploring online communities and forums dedicated to cereal enthusiasts. These groups often share information about where to find discontinued cereals or even coordinate trades or sales among members. Keep in mind that the condition and freshness of such products may vary.
How has Post cereal branding evolved over time?
Post cereal branding has undergone significant evolution since its inception in the late 19th century. From its initial focus on health and wellness messaging to its current emphasis on flavor and family appeal, the branding has adapted to reflect changing societal values and marketing trends. The use of mascots, packaging design, and advertising strategies have all been transformed.
Early branding often centered around the perceived health benefits of grain-based cereals as a healthier alternative to traditional breakfasts. Over time, as consumer tastes shifted, the focus moved towards highlighting the taste and enjoyment of Post cereals, with the introduction of colorful packaging, cartoon characters, and promotional tie-ins with popular entertainment franchises.
What is the current ownership structure of Post Consumer Brands?
Post Consumer Brands is currently owned by TreeHouse Foods. This occurred through a significant acquisition, reflecting the ongoing consolidation and restructuring within the food industry. This ownership change has influenced the direction and management of the Post cereal portfolio.
This acquisition allows TreeHouse Foods to expand its presence in the private-label cereal market and leverage Post Consumer Brands’ established distribution networks and manufacturing capabilities. This shift in ownership continues to shape the future of Post cereals and their availability to consumers.