Maxwell House and Folgers are two of the most popular coffee brands in the United States. Both have been around for over a century, with Maxwell House being established in 1892 and Folgers in the 1850s. These brands offer a range of coffee products that cater to different tastes and preferences, making it difficult for consumers to choose between them.
Maxwell House and Folgers have their own unique history, taste profile, and varieties of coffee products. While Maxwell House is known for its smooth, mellow taste, Folgers is known for its rich, bold flavor. Both brands offer a variety of coffee blends, including decaf and flavored options. Additionally, they differ in their sustainability practices and price points. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between Maxwell House and Folgers to help you make an informed decision when choosing your next cup of coffee.
Key Takeaways
- Maxwell House and Folgers are two of the most popular coffee brands in the United States, both with over a century of history.
- While Maxwell House is known for its smooth, mellow taste, Folgers is known for its rich, bold flavor.
- Both brands offer a variety of coffee blends, including decaf and flavored options, and differ in their sustainability practices and price points.
History of Maxwell House
Maxwell House coffee was founded in 1892 by Joel Owsley Cheek in Nashville, Tennessee. Cheek was a local businessman who owned a grocery store and was looking for a way to differentiate his business from the competition. He began experimenting with coffee blends and eventually came up with a unique blend that was a hit with his customers.
Cheek named his coffee after the Maxwell House Hotel in Nashville, where he had sold his coffee to guests. The hotel was known for its high standards, and Cheek believed that the name would help to convey the quality of his coffee.
Maxwell House coffee quickly gained popularity and was soon being sold throughout the country. In 1901, it became the first coffee to be sold in a vacuum-sealed can, which helped to preserve the flavor and freshness of the coffee.
Over the years, Maxwell House has continued to innovate and introduce new products. In the 1920s, it introduced a new blend called “Good to the Last Drop,” which became a popular slogan and is still used today. In the 1950s, it introduced freeze-dried coffee, which was a major breakthrough in the industry.
Today, Maxwell House is owned by Kraft Foods and is one of the most popular brands of coffee in the United States. It offers a wide range of products, including ground coffee, instant coffee, and coffee pods.
History of Folgers
Folgers coffee has a long and rich history that dates back to the 1850s. The company was founded by James A. Folger, who was born in Nantucket, Massachusetts, in 1835. Folger moved to California during the Gold Rush and started working at The Pioneer Steam Coffee and Spice Mills in San Francisco.
After working there for several years, Folger decided to start his own coffee business. In 1850, he opened J.A. Folger & Co. in San Francisco, California. The company originally sold roasted and ground coffee, as well as spices, to gold miners and others in the area.
Folgers became a popular coffee brand in the United States during the 20th century. The company’s success can be attributed to its marketing campaigns, which included slogans like “The best part of waking up is Folgers in your cup” and “Mountain Grown.”
Today, Folgers is owned by The J.M. Smucker Company and is one of the most popular coffee brands in the United States. The company offers a wide range of coffee products, including ground coffee, instant coffee, and K-Cup pods. Folgers also offers a variety of flavors, such as French Vanilla, Hazelnut, and Caramel Drizzle.
Overall, Folgers has a rich history and has become a household name in the United States. The company’s commitment to providing high-quality coffee products has allowed it to remain a popular brand for over a century.
Taste Profile of Maxwell House
Maxwell House is a popular coffee brand that has been around since 1892. It is known for its smooth and mellow taste, making it a favorite among coffee drinkers who prefer a less bitter taste.
One of the reasons for its smooth taste is that Maxwell House uses 100% Arabica coffee beans in its blends. Arabica beans are known for their delicate flavor and low acidity, making them ideal for a smooth and balanced coffee.
Maxwell House also offers a range of roasts, from light to dark, to cater to different preferences. Their light roasts have a mild flavor with a slightly nutty taste, while their dark roasts have a bolder flavor with a hint of chocolate and caramel.
In terms of caffeine content, Maxwell House coffee is generally lower in caffeine compared to other brands. This makes it a good option for those who are sensitive to caffeine or prefer a less stimulating cup of coffee.
Overall, Maxwell House offers a smooth and mellow taste that is perfect for those who prefer a less bitter coffee. Its use of 100% Arabica beans and range of roasts make it a versatile brand that can cater to different preferences.
Taste Profile of Folgers
Folgers coffee is known for its bold and rich taste. It is a medium-dark roast coffee that is made from a blend of both Arabica and Robusta beans. The coffee has a strong aroma that is sure to awaken your senses.
One of the unique aspects of Folgers coffee is its high caffeine content. This makes it a great choice for those who need a little extra boost in the morning or for those who enjoy a strong cup of coffee. However, it is important to note that the high caffeine content can also make the coffee taste a bit bitter.
When it comes to flavor, Folgers coffee has a complex profile. It has notes of chocolate, caramel, and nuttiness, which add to the overall richness of the coffee. The coffee has a smooth finish that is not too overpowering.
Folgers coffee is also versatile when it comes to brewing methods. It can be brewed using a drip coffee maker, French press, pour-over, or even as an espresso shot. This makes it a great choice for coffee lovers who enjoy experimenting with different brewing methods.
Overall, Folgers coffee is a great choice for those who enjoy a bold and rich cup of coffee. Its high caffeine content, complex flavor profile, and versatility make it a popular choice among coffee lovers.
Varieties Offered by Maxwell House
Maxwell House is a well-known coffee brand in the United States, offering a variety of coffee options to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are the different varieties of coffee offered by Maxwell House:
Ground Coffee Varieties
Maxwell House offers a range of ground coffee varieties, including:
- Original Roast: This is the classic blend that has been around for over 100 years. It has a rich, full-bodied flavor that is perfect for those who like a strong cup of coffee.
- Breakfast Blend: This is a milder blend that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter cup of coffee in the morning.
- French Roast: This is a darker roast that has a bold, smoky flavor. It’s perfect for those who like a strong, full-bodied cup of coffee.
Instant Coffee Varieties
Maxwell House also offers a range of instant coffee varieties, including:
- Original Roast: This is the classic blend that has been around for over 100 years. It has a rich, full-bodied flavor that is perfect for those who like a strong cup of coffee.
- Decaf: This is a decaffeinated version of the classic blend, perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavor of Maxwell House without the caffeine.
- French Vanilla: This is a flavored coffee that has a smooth, creamy taste with a hint of vanilla. It’s perfect for those who like a sweeter cup of coffee.
Maxwell House also offers a range of flavored coffee pods for use with single-serve coffee makers. These include French Vanilla, Hazelnut, and Breakfast Blend.
Overall, Maxwell House offers a variety of coffee options to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer a strong, full-bodied cup of coffee or a lighter, milder blend, there’s a Maxwell House coffee for you.
Varieties Offered by Folgers
Folgers has been around for over 150 years and has a wide range of coffee products to offer. Let’s take a look at the different varieties they offer.
Ground Coffee Varieties
Folgers offers a variety of ground coffee blends for coffee lovers. Some of the most popular ones are:
- Classic Roast: This is the original Folgers coffee that has been around since 1850. It is a medium roast coffee that has a smooth and rich taste.
- Black Silk: This is a dark roast coffee that has a bold and robust flavor. It is perfect for those who prefer a strong cup of coffee.
- Gourmet Supreme: This is a medium-dark roast coffee that has a rich and complex flavor. It is perfect for those who enjoy a full-bodied cup of coffee.
Instant Coffee Varieties
Folgers also offers a variety of instant coffee blends for those who prefer a quick and easy cup of coffee. Some of the most popular ones are:
- Classic Roast: This is the same classic roast coffee that is available in ground form. It is perfect for those who want a quick and easy cup of coffee.
- Instant Decaf: This is a decaffeinated coffee that is perfect for those who want to enjoy the taste of coffee without the caffeine.
- Colombian: This is a medium-dark roast coffee that has a rich and full-bodied flavor. It is perfect for those who prefer a strong cup of coffee.
Overall, Folgers offers a wide range of coffee blends that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer ground coffee or instant coffee, Folgers has something for everyone.
Popularity and Market Share
When it comes to coffee brands, Folgers and Maxwell House are two of the most popular and recognizable names in the industry. Both brands have been around for over a century and have a loyal following of coffee drinkers.
According to Statista, in the 52 weeks ended May 17, 2020, Folgers was the leading ground coffee brand in the United States, accounting for over 25 percent of the U.S. ground coffee market. On the other hand, Maxwell House’s market share dropped from 8 percent in 2013 to 6.7 percent in 2018, a significant loss over a five-year period.
Despite this, both brands continue to be popular choices for coffee drinkers, and each has its own unique qualities. Folgers is known for its bold taste and high caffeine content, while Maxwell House is praised for its smoothness and lower caffeine levels.
In terms of popularity, Folgers has recently taken over Maxwell House in its popularity. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that Folgers is a better coffee brand. Taste is subjective, and what one person likes may not be what another person likes.
Ultimately, the popularity and market share of these two brands are a testament to their quality and the loyalty of their customers. Whether you prefer the bold taste of Folgers or the smoothness of Maxwell House, both brands have something to offer for every coffee drinker.
Price Comparison
When it comes to coffee, price is an important factor for many people. Both Folgers and Maxwell House are well-known for their affordability, but which one is the better deal?
In general, the price of Folgers and Maxwell House coffee is quite similar. However, the exact price can vary depending on the retailer and the specific product. Here are some general price comparisons between the two brands:
- A 30.6 oz canister of Folgers Classic Roast coffee costs around $7.99, while a 30.6 oz canister of Maxwell House Original Roast coffee costs around $7.49.
- A 24.2 oz canister of Folgers Black Silk coffee costs around $8.99, while a 24.5 oz canister of Maxwell House Dark Roast coffee costs around $7.49.
- A 12 oz bag of Folgers Breakfast Blend ground coffee costs around $4.99, while a 11 oz bag of Maxwell House Breakfast Blend ground coffee costs around $4.49.
As you can see, the price difference between the two brands is generally quite small, with one brand occasionally being slightly cheaper than the other. However, it’s worth noting that prices can vary depending on where you buy your coffee, and there may be sales or discounts available that could affect the price.
Overall, both Folgers and Maxwell House offer affordable coffee options that are accessible to most people. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly coffee option, either of these brands could be a good choice.
Sustainability Practices of Maxwell House
Maxwell House has made significant strides in recent years to improve its sustainability practices. The company has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact and promote sustainable farming practices.
One of the key initiatives undertaken by Maxwell House is its commitment to sourcing coffee beans from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms. This certification ensures that coffee is grown in a way that protects the environment and promotes the well-being of farmers and their communities.
Maxwell House has also implemented a number of programs to reduce waste and increase recycling. For example, the company has introduced a new packaging design that uses less material and is easier to recycle. Additionally, Maxwell House has partnered with TerraCycle to create a recycling program for its coffee pods.
Another area where Maxwell House has made significant progress is in reducing its carbon footprint. The company has set a target to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2025. To achieve this goal, Maxwell House has implemented a number of energy-saving initiatives, such as installing LED lighting and upgrading its manufacturing equipment.
Overall, Maxwell House is taking significant steps to improve its sustainability practices. By sourcing coffee beans from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms, reducing waste and increasing recycling, and reducing its carbon footprint, Maxwell House is demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Sustainability Practices of Folgers
Folgers has implemented several sustainability practices to reduce its environmental impact. The company has set a goal to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2020. To achieve this goal, Folgers has implemented several initiatives, including:
-
Sustainable sourcing: Folgers sources its coffee beans from farms that adhere to sustainable farming practices. The company works with farmers to promote sustainability and improve their livelihoods.
-
Reducing waste: Folgers has implemented several programs to reduce waste, such as recycling and composting. The company has also implemented a program to reduce the amount of packaging used in its products.
-
Energy efficiency: Folgers has implemented several initiatives to reduce energy consumption. The company has installed energy-efficient lighting and equipment in its facilities. It has also implemented a program to reduce the amount of water used in its operations.
-
Community engagement: Folgers is committed to engaging with the communities in which it operates. The company has implemented several programs to support local communities, such as providing education and training programs.
Folgers is also committed to ethical sourcing practices. The company works with farmers to ensure that they are paid a fair price for their coffee beans. Folgers also works to promote social and economic development in the communities in which it operates.
Overall, Folgers is committed to sustainability and ethical practices. The company has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact and promote social and economic development in the communities in which it operates.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Folgers and Maxwell House offer great options for coffee lovers on a budget. Each brand has its own unique flavor profile, with Maxwell House being nutty and bread-like, while Folgers is a bit smoother and less intense.
When it comes to the type of beans used, Maxwell House has moved to 100% arabica beans, while Folgers uses a blend of arabica and robusta beans. This may be a deciding factor for some coffee drinkers who prefer one type of bean over the other.
In terms of packaging, both brands offer various options for ground coffee, including pre-measured pods, and whole bean options for those who prefer to grind their coffee fresh. Maxwell House also offers instant coffee options for those who need a quick and easy caffeine fix.
Ultimately, the choice between Folgers and Maxwell House comes down to personal preference. Both brands offer affordable and delicious coffee options that can satisfy any coffee lover’s taste buds. So, whether you prefer a nutty and bread-like flavor or a smoother and less intense brew, you can’t go wrong with either of these classic brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand makes the best store-bought coffee?
Both Folgers and Maxwell House are popular brands of store-bought coffee, and the choice between them is largely a matter of personal preference. Folgers is known for its smooth and mild flavor profile, while Maxwell House is often favored for its bolder taste. Ultimately, the best brand of store-bought coffee is the one that you enjoy the most.
Is there a difference in taste between Folgers Instant Coffee and Maxwell House Instant Coffee?
Yes, there is a difference in taste between Folgers Instant Coffee and Maxwell House Instant Coffee. Folgers Instant Coffee is known for its smooth and mild taste, while Maxwell House Instant Coffee is often favored for its bold and rich flavor profile. Again, the choice between the two brands is largely a matter of personal preference.
Are Folgers and Maxwell House owned by the same company?
No, Folgers and Maxwell House are not owned by the same company. Folgers is owned by The J.M. Smucker Company, while Maxwell House is owned by Kraft Heinz.
Which Maxwell House coffee blend is considered the best?
There is no one “best” Maxwell House coffee blend, as the choice between them is largely a matter of personal preference. Some popular blends include the Original Roast, French Roast, and Breakfast Blend.
Is Maxwell House instant coffee a good choice for coffee lovers?
Maxwell House instant coffee is a good choice for coffee lovers who appreciate a bold and rich flavor profile. However, if you prefer a smoother and milder taste, you may want to consider other brands.
What is the difference between Folgers, Maxwell House, and Hills Bros coffee?
Folgers, Maxwell House, and Hills Bros are all popular brands of coffee, but they differ in terms of taste and flavor profile. Folgers is known for its smooth and mild taste, while Maxwell House is often favored for its bold and rich flavor profile. Hills Bros is known for its full-bodied and rich taste, with a slightly bitter finish. Ultimately, the choice between these brands is a matter of personal preference.
