- The Record Archives
- Volume CXVIII, No. XXII - December 1, 2005 -
Philip Morris tops chain of common food brand choices
Many students aren't aware of connections
Every day American consumers support Philip Morris, often without even knowing it.
Philip Morris, also known as Altria, is a tobacco company.
It also owns three times as many food companies as brands of tobacco.
Even non-smokers can't go a day without eating or drinking a Philip Morris product.
Picture a typical day:
Morning
Junior Kristina Kelly didn't think she supported Philip Morris, but when asked what she eats for breakfast she said, "I start the day with my favorite Post cereal, Grape-Nuts, and maybe a bowl of Knudsen cottage cheese with fresh fruit."
These are examples of products actually owned by Philip Morris.
Mid-Morning snack
With only 30-minute breaks between classes, many students run into Sexton or McGlynn's and grab a bag of Cornnuts or Ritz crackers.
Lunch
Go the sandwich route with Louis Rich or Oscar Meyer meats, add Deli Deluxe cheese, Grey Poupon, Miracle Whip or Kraft Mayonnaise and some Claussen pickles for a Philip Morris select sandwich.
Dessert
Try a cup of Jell-O or choose from a selection of tasty cookies, Oreos, Nutter Butters, Chips Ahoy!, Barnum's Animal crackers or Nilla wafers.
After meal mints anyone? Philip Morris has got everyone covered with the curiously strong Altoids.
Afternoon snack
"I like to snack on Wheat Thins, Teddy Grahams or Handi-Snacks. For an added energy boost, I grab a Balance bar," said junior Janae Bethke.
Dinner
What is the one food product found in every college dorm? That's right, Easy Mac.
When senior Brady Hanson is in the mood for pizza, he usually has Jack's or Tombstone.
As an upperclassman with a full kitchen, Hanson said that it is not uncommon to have a meal with Minute rice, Stove Top stuffing or Velveeta shells and cheese.
When he barbecues he always uses of A.1. steak sauce, marinades and Worcestershire sauces.
Dessert
"My roommate brought back a pumpkin pie topped with Cool Whip, which is my favorite," said junior Allie Stephens. She said she "had no idea Philip Morris owned Cool Whip."
Every product mentioned here is owned by Philip Morris.
The company is omnipresent in an typical college student's day.
It's a true challenge to go a day without buying a product that is owned by this mammoth tobacco company.