13 Popular Grocery Store Products – Were They Named After Real People?

(KMDL-FM) What’s in a name? If you’re into product marketing, there could be millions of dollars tied up in that name. Many products use a person’s name in their marketing strategy. It helps convey a connection to the consumer. But in many cases, the name you see on the outside of the package does not belong to an actual human being.  

Why Do Companies Use People's Names to Sell Products?

The reason a company might attach a name to its product is a multi-faceted process. Sometimes a person’s name makes the product easier to remember, especially if it’s a high-profile celebrity name.  Except in the cases of celebrities who sometimes faux pas in the public eye, most companies just hire them as spokespeople. 

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Attaching a person’s name can also indicate authenticity; for example, a pasta product that features an Italian surname in its brand might seem a little more special than a box that simply says pasta.  

The Right Name on a Product Can Mean Millions of Dollars to a Company

By giving the product a similar name to that of a human being, real or imagined, the company hopes to develop a deeper connection with the consumer. Almost a friendship, if you will.

three women walking on brown wooden dock near high rise building during daytime

And when it comes to buying your next cake mix your certainly going to purchase the brand with the friendly name as opposed to a cake mix that doesn’t seem to be as socially acceptable.  

READ MORE: How 10 Louisiana Brands Got Their Name - The Backstory

Would it make a difference if you knew the name attached to the product wasn’t the name of a real person? Would you still buy the peanut butter if it wasn't Peter Pan? By the way, I think he is fictional. 

READ MORE: Are These the 10 Most Loved Foods in Louisiana? 

Well, let’s see, we have a list of popular grocery store items. You tell us if the person’s who name is associated with the brand name is real or imagined. Let us know how you did in your guesses.