Canned Cheeseburgers Are More Than Just A Meme

When you think of cheeseburgers, canned food likely isn't the first thing that comes to mind. But, because the canned aisle seemingly holds no limits, canned cheeseburgers exist, blending practicality with a touch of culinary oddity. Born from the demands of backpackers and survivalists, this "trekking burger" offers an all-in-one meal — meat, cheese, bun, and even condiments — neatly contained within a metal can. It first hit the market in 2008, when Trekking-Mahlzeiten (a Swiss manufacturer) added it to the company's roster of ready-to-eat meal products.

But let's not pretend it's anything like grabbing a sack of sliders at a classic diner. In fact, eating a canned cheeseburger feels worlds apart from what it was like eating at the first White Castle. And for anyone who's used to classic cookout staples, the canned version might feel a little out there. But for the curious — or the well-prepared — the canned cheeseburger brings the calories and a bit of comfort, even if it comes with that unmistakable preserved touch.

What started as an easy answer for those who live for the outdoors soon became an internet sensation, tempting the food-curious who couldn't pass up a chance to try it. After all, why turn down the opportunity to unbox something so surreal? By the early 2010s, the "cheeseburger in a can" was seemingly everywhere online, its squashed, preserved form popping up in taste tests and reaction videos. Its status shifted from survival food to meme material, where it was just as likely to get mocked as it was to land on someone's plate. Its texture may have been questionable, but that didn't keep food bloggers and YouTubers from grabbing the chance to show it off.

For those who can't quite stomach the idea, maybe just stick to New England's nostalgic favorite — canned bread. At least that one's a classic — bringing back memories of thick, sticky slices that always seemed to show up at family dinners. Still, there's something oddly fascinating about canned cheeseburgers that keeps them in the food world's spotlight. And if nothing else, at least you won't need to know how long to cook a burger on each side — just heat and eat, for better or worse.