Hormel Taps Instagram Live for Kitchen Connections

In an era in which more consumers are cooking at home thanks to social distancing, Hormel Foods is using Instagram to connect with them right in their kitchens.

Part of the company’s new Pantry Project — in which chefs and kitchen experts demonstrate how to make the most of items in the kitchen — chef and caterer Vanessa Cantave and TV personality and producer Laurie March hosted an Instagram Live event on April 11 for Hormel.

Cantave made brunch using Hormel’s Mary Kitchen hash and took questions from viewers.

“So many people are waking up to a different reality in their home and in their kitchens lately,” said March. “It’s an honor to be tapped by Hormel Foods to cohost this personal, live take on The Pantry Project with Chef Vanessa Cantave. I hope people make themselves a cup of coffee and join the conversation.”

“We know food has the power to bring people together, especially during difficult times,” Wendy Watkins, Hormel vice president of communications, told CGT. “The Pantry Project is a great example of what can happen when we empower our team members and culinary partners to use their creativity and expertise to make a difference in the lives of our friends and communities.”

Hormel intends to hold future Instagram Live events with March as the host, educating consumers on such things as meal planning, kitchen skills and cooking with kids.

The company is No. 59 on the CGT Top 100 Consumer Goods Companies of 2019 list.