A beloved pantry brand files for bankruptcy—what it means for your grocery shelf
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If you’ve ever reached for a can of peaches, green beans, or diced tomatoes, chances are it had the familiar Del Monte label.
For over 135 years, the brand has been a trusted presence in American kitchens, offering shelf-stable staples at an affordable price.
Now, Del Monte Foods has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the US, prompting concern from loyal shoppers.
The company says it’s a strategic move—not a shutdown—as it works to restructure and continue operations.
Here’s what’s happening, why it matters, and what it could mean for your grocery cart.
Why did Del Monte file for bankruptcy?
According to company leadership, Del Monte has been struggling with several pressures common in the food industry today—rising costs, supply chain disruptions, and changing consumer preferences.
These challenges have made it difficult to stay profitable, prompting the company to seek court protection as it prepares for a potential sale.
It’s important to note that the bankruptcy filing only affects Del Monte’s US operations.
Its international branches, including Del Monte Fresh (famous for products like the Pinkglow Pineapple), are not part of the filing and will continue operating as usual.
Also read: Is Chipotle going bankrupt? Here’s the truth behind the rumors
It’s a restructuring—not a shutdown
Del Monte isn’t closing its doors.
In fact, the company has already secured $912.5 million in financing to support its operations during the restructuring process.
CEO Greg Longstreet described the move as a “strategic step forward,” with hopes of finding a new owner to help strengthen the business for the future.
“This is the most effective way to accelerate our turnaround and create a stronger and enduring Del Monte Foods,” Longstreet said.
In short: the company is looking to adapt—not disappear.
Also read: The end of an era—Party City stores shutting down forever!
What does this mean for shoppers in the US?
If Del Monte products are a part of your grocery routine, you likely won’t notice any immediate changes.
The company says it will continue to deliver the high-quality, convenient food its customers expect throughout the restructuring.
Del Monte owns several recognizable brands, including:
So even if you don’t see the Del Monte name on the label, you might still be buying their products.
Also read: Is your local home furnishing store closing? See the full list amid bankruptcy shocker
Why are food companies under pressure?
Del Monte is just the latest in a growing list of food-related businesses facing financial strain.
From rising packaging and shipping costs to labor shortages and inflation, many companies are struggling to maintain operations without raising prices beyond what shoppers can afford.
Consumer habits are also shifting.
More people are seeking out fresh, organic, or locally sourced options—while traditional canned goods, though still valued for their convenience and long shelf life, are losing ground in some markets.
Still, there remains a strong demand for affordable, shelf-stable foods—particularly among seniors, rural households, and anyone looking to stretch a budget.
Also read: Fast food shakeup: A popular sandwich chain faces bankruptcy
A legacy that still matters
Founded in 1886, Del Monte isn’t just a brand—it’s part of many family memories.
Whether it’s pineapple on a holiday ham, green beans for a casserole, or tomatoes for your favorite soup, Del Monte products have long been pantry essentials.
The company’s leadership hopes that legacy will carry forward with the help of a buyer who shares their commitment to adapting and moving forward.
Longstreet thanked employees, growers, partners, and lenders for their support during what he described as a transition toward a “stronger, more sustainable future.”
For now, it’s business as usual on store shelves.
But the story of Del Monte’s restructuring is a reminder that even well-established companies can be vulnerable in a changing economy.
It also raises thoughtful questions: Will more long-standing brands follow the same path? How will consumer habits reshape the food industry? And what role will canned and packaged goods play in the years ahead—especially for seniors who rely on them for convenience and affordability?
Read next: Miss America Pageant files for bankruptcy after 103 years—former CEO slams 'reckless' move following heated ownership showdown
Have you noticed changes in the brands you’ve trusted for years? Do you still keep canned goods in your pantry, or are you choosing fresher options these days? What would it mean to you if brands like Del Monte disappeared from shelves?
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your stories, opinions, or questions in the comments below—and don’t forget to pass this article along to anyone who loves a well-stocked pantry!
For over 135 years, the brand has been a trusted presence in American kitchens, offering shelf-stable staples at an affordable price.
Now, Del Monte Foods has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the US, prompting concern from loyal shoppers.
The company says it’s a strategic move—not a shutdown—as it works to restructure and continue operations.
Here’s what’s happening, why it matters, and what it could mean for your grocery cart.
Why did Del Monte file for bankruptcy?
According to company leadership, Del Monte has been struggling with several pressures common in the food industry today—rising costs, supply chain disruptions, and changing consumer preferences.
These challenges have made it difficult to stay profitable, prompting the company to seek court protection as it prepares for a potential sale.
It’s important to note that the bankruptcy filing only affects Del Monte’s US operations.
Its international branches, including Del Monte Fresh (famous for products like the Pinkglow Pineapple), are not part of the filing and will continue operating as usual.
Also read: Is Chipotle going bankrupt? Here’s the truth behind the rumors
It’s a restructuring—not a shutdown
Del Monte isn’t closing its doors.
In fact, the company has already secured $912.5 million in financing to support its operations during the restructuring process.
CEO Greg Longstreet described the move as a “strategic step forward,” with hopes of finding a new owner to help strengthen the business for the future.
“This is the most effective way to accelerate our turnaround and create a stronger and enduring Del Monte Foods,” Longstreet said.
In short: the company is looking to adapt—not disappear.
Also read: The end of an era—Party City stores shutting down forever!
What does this mean for shoppers in the US?
If Del Monte products are a part of your grocery routine, you likely won’t notice any immediate changes.
The company says it will continue to deliver the high-quality, convenient food its customers expect throughout the restructuring.
Del Monte owns several recognizable brands, including:
- Contadina (canned tomatoes and sauces)
- College Inn and Kitchen Basics (broths and stocks)
- JOYBA (bubble tea)
- S&W and Take Root Organics
So even if you don’t see the Del Monte name on the label, you might still be buying their products.
Also read: Is your local home furnishing store closing? See the full list amid bankruptcy shocker
Why are food companies under pressure?
Del Monte is just the latest in a growing list of food-related businesses facing financial strain.
From rising packaging and shipping costs to labor shortages and inflation, many companies are struggling to maintain operations without raising prices beyond what shoppers can afford.
Consumer habits are also shifting.
More people are seeking out fresh, organic, or locally sourced options—while traditional canned goods, though still valued for their convenience and long shelf life, are losing ground in some markets.
Still, there remains a strong demand for affordable, shelf-stable foods—particularly among seniors, rural households, and anyone looking to stretch a budget.
Also read: Fast food shakeup: A popular sandwich chain faces bankruptcy
A legacy that still matters
Founded in 1886, Del Monte isn’t just a brand—it’s part of many family memories.
Whether it’s pineapple on a holiday ham, green beans for a casserole, or tomatoes for your favorite soup, Del Monte products have long been pantry essentials.
The company’s leadership hopes that legacy will carry forward with the help of a buyer who shares their commitment to adapting and moving forward.
Longstreet thanked employees, growers, partners, and lenders for their support during what he described as a transition toward a “stronger, more sustainable future.”
For now, it’s business as usual on store shelves.
But the story of Del Monte’s restructuring is a reminder that even well-established companies can be vulnerable in a changing economy.
It also raises thoughtful questions: Will more long-standing brands follow the same path? How will consumer habits reshape the food industry? And what role will canned and packaged goods play in the years ahead—especially for seniors who rely on them for convenience and affordability?
Read next: Miss America Pageant files for bankruptcy after 103 years—former CEO slams 'reckless' move following heated ownership showdown
Have you noticed changes in the brands you’ve trusted for years? Do you still keep canned goods in your pantry, or are you choosing fresher options these days? What would it mean to you if brands like Del Monte disappeared from shelves?
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your stories, opinions, or questions in the comments below—and don’t forget to pass this article along to anyone who loves a well-stocked pantry!
