In the bustling realm of culinary convenience, few brands stand as tall and enduring as Knorr and Maggi. Originating over 150 ago in Germany and Switzerland, respectively, these culinary giants have carved a niche for themselves in kitchens worldwide. Their legacy is not merely confined to households; it extends to the realms of food service and restaurants, where their products play a pivotal role in crafting delectable dishes with great ease. From humble origins in 19th century Europe, these iconic brands have grown to become household names, beloved for their quality, convenience, and culinary excellence.

Diverse Product Offerings: The cornerstone of Knorr and Maggi's success lies in helping home cooks to make complex meals with ease and speed. With a diverse and extensive range of soups, sauces, and seasoning mixes - all with dehydrated ingredients that provide flavor, viscosity and texture - they provide a solution to every culinary conundrum. Whether it's a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly evening or a zesty sauce to make Rhineland Sauerbraten, Knorr and Maggi have you covered.

In our store, we offer over 100 Knorr products and over 40 Maggi products. Check out the variety.

Culinary Expertise: What sets Knorr and Maggi apart in the food world is a distinct culinary expertise and finesse, that translates will into making food on an industrial scale. This is why they are still the “go-to” option e for both amateur cooks and seasoned chefs alike, even after 150 years. Home cooks still cut meat or vegetables and cook side pasta and rice. Knorr and Maggi will then do the hard part: adding flavor to complex dishes time after time with almost guaranteed results. 

Convenience Redefined Across the Globe: In the mid 19th century, amid the first industrial revolution, the need for speed and convenience to make meals at home became ever more important. The inventors of Knorr and Maggi were at the forefront of this culinary revolution. Their seasonings, soups, sauces, and bouillons quickly became household staples in the German-speaking world and over the next 150+ years, these two brands achieved a remarkable global reach, rivaling Coke and Pepsi as the most global consumer food brands. Today, Knorr and Maggi are staples in  households and restaurants in over 100 countries worldwide, with customized products that fit diverse cultures and cuisines.

The story of Knorr begins in 1838 when Carl Heinrich Knorr, a German entrepreneur, founded a small business in Heilbronn, Germany. Initially, the company focused on producing dried soups to provide affordable and nutritious meals to people across Europe. However, it wasn't until the late 19th century, when Carl's sons, Carl and Albert Knorr, took over the business, that Knorr truly began to flourish.

In 1873, Carl and Albert Knorr revolutionized the food industry by introducing the world's first meat extract—a concentrated beef bouillon that could be easily dissolved in water, providing a rich and flavorful base for soups, stews, and sauces. This innovation quickly gained popularity and established Knorr as a leader in culinary excellence.

Over the ensuing decades, Knorr continued to expand its product offerings, introducing a wide range of soups, sauces, and seasonings that catered to evolving consumer tastes and preferences. In the 1970s, the US based multinational CPC International acquired the Knorr brand and factories. Today, the brand is part of the Unilever Group. Although a global brand, the products are manufactured locally, geared towards the specific culinary preferences of the respective country. 

The origins of Maggi can be traced back to 19th century Switzerland, where Julius Maggi, a Swiss entrepreneur, set out to improve the nutritional quality of meals for working-class families. In 1886, Julius Maggi introduced the first commercially prepared instant soup—a nutritious and convenient solution for busy households.

Maggi's instant soups quickly gained popularity, thanks to their affordability, convenience, and delicious flavor. Building on this success, Julius Maggi expanded his product line to include a variety of seasoning mixes, sauces, and bouillons, each designed to enhance the taste of everyday meals.

By the turn of the century, Maggi had become a household name across Europe and beyond, with its products being embraced by consumers from all walks of life. The brand's commitment to innovation and quality ensured its enduring legacy in the culinary world.

In 1947, Maggi became part of the Nestlé Group, further solidifying its position as a global leader in food and beverage. Today, Maggi products continue to be cherished by millions of consumers worldwide, offering a convenient and delicious way to elevate everyday cooking.

The Salt Dilemma: Despite their undeniable appeal, Knorr and Maggi have faced scrutiny over the years for their salt content. Critics argue that some products contain excessive levels of sodium, raising concerns about their impact on health. However, both brands have taken steps to address these concerns, offering reduced-sodium options and emphasizing moderation in consumption. Moreover, users of the mixes can customize dishes, use only half of a pack and add other flavors, without losing much of the convenience benefits.

The legacy of Knorr and Maggi is one of innovation, convenience, and culinary excellence. From their humble beginnings in Europe to their global dominance today, they have revolutionized the way we cook and eat. As they continue to adapt to changing tastes and preferences, one thing remains certain: Knorr and Maggi will always have a place in kitchens around the world, shaping the way we experience the joys of food.