Wesson

Wesson Oil: A Century-Old Staple in American Kitchens

Wesson Oil is a leading cooking oil brand in the United States with a rich history that dates back to 1899. The brand is named after David Wesson (1861–1934), a pioneering food chemist who developed an innovative process for deodorizing cottonseed oil. His breakthrough made it possible to produce the first commercial all-vegetable shortening and liquid cooking oils that were healthier alternatives to animal fats, revolutionizing American cooking.

Origins and Innovation

David Wesson’s groundbreaking work began in the late 19th century when he worked for the Southern Cotton Oil Company. By 1899, he had perfected a method to remove off-flavors and odors from cottonseed oil, introducing a neutral-flavored oil suitable for various culinary uses. This innovation led to the launch of the Wesson Oil brand, which quickly gained popularity as a versatile and healthy cooking oil.

Brand Evolution and Ownership

Throughout the 20th century, Wesson expanded its product line catering to both home cooks and professional chefs. By the 1920s, the vegetable oil division was spun off as the Wesson Oil & Snowdrift Company. The company later merged with Hunt’s Foods, forming Hunt-Wesson Foods, and then became part of Beatrice Foods.

In 1990, ConAgra Foods acquired Wesson along with other Beatrice brands. In 2019, Richardson International—a major North American agribusiness—purchased Wesson, bringing new focus and resources to the brand.

Product Range

Wesson Oil offers a variety of cooking oils and shortenings designed to meet diverse culinary needs:

• Vegetable Oils: Versatile oils suitable for frying, sautéing, baking, and salad dressings.

• Canola Oil: Known for its light flavor and high smoke point, ideal for healthy cooking.

• Corn Oil: Popular for frying due to its crisp texture and neutral taste.

• Pure Vegetable Shortening and Margarines: Used frequently in baking for flaky pastries and creamy frostings.

• Specialty Blends: Designed for frying and searing with enhanced performance.

Iconic Branding and Marketing

The brand’s logo style was famously redesigned by graphic artist Saul Bass in 1964, giving it a modern and memorable look. Wesson’s “Wessonality” campaign in the 1970s capitalized on the oil’s non-greasy, crispy-frying benefits.

Quality and Community

Wesson prioritizes quality control and sustainable sourcing practices, ensuring that its oils meet rigorous standards for nutrition and flavor. It continues its legacy as America’s favorite cooking oil, trusted in kitchens nationwide for generations.

Why Choose Wesson Oil?

Wesson Oil combines over a century of innovation and trust, offering a broad portfolio of oils and shortenings that help home cooks and professionals create healthier and tastier meals. Its commitment to quality, heritage, and continuous improvement makes Wesson a top choice for reliable, versatile cooking oils.