Beech-Nut: World War II and Later Years

The Beech-Nut company had to alter some of its lines to fulfill government contracts during World War II. Most of the extra wartime production involved the making of K Ration—a packaged line of emergency foods developed for the armed services. All but the chewing gum was produced elsewhere and shipped to Canajoharie, where the various parts were assembled into a finished meal. Beech-Nut Gum was added to each meal prior to shipping. A small machine shop and freeze-drying plant were added to Beech-Nut’s regular manufacturing facilities as well.