A Short History of the Ritz Cracker

The Ritz Cracker is an American favorite. Buttery, salty, and very light and crunchy, these crackers have been around since the Great Depression.

The National Biscuit Company, now known as Nabisco, first introduced the Ritz cracker to Baltimore and Philadelphia markets on November 21, 1934.

The sleek, shiny cracker was attractive enough already, but it needed a name. The name "Ritz" is derived from the word "Ritzy", meaning "expensively stylish". During the Great Depression, many Americans lived in poor conditions, and yearned for a touch of something fancy and exquisite.

Ritz crackers are now sold internationally and are a household favorite.