Our story begins in the early 1900s, when Henry Steinbarth departs his Bavarian homeland to begin a new life of promise and opportunity in the United States. Arriving in Chicago, he endured many hardships as a young man, but his tenacity and determination were rewarded. In 1924, he opened a meat-market on Chicago’s southwest side, amidst the booming economy of the stockyards, steel mills and freight yards.
Over the years, Chicago’s population continued to diversify. Immigrants from Mexico and other Latin American countries were drawn to the area through abundant job opportunities and affordable housing. They laid down their roots in the neighborhoods of Pilsen, Little Village and South Chicago. Henry recognized an opportunity to serve the needs of his new customers, and hand-crafted a recipe for Mexican sausage known as Chorizo.
As the product gained in popularity, Henry’s two sons Ralph and Billy entered the business. Soon they were selling Chorizo and other products from the trunk of the family car to various bodegas, tiendas, colmados, panaderias and carnicerias across the town. Realizing the potential, Ralph, Billy and their lifelong friend Frank O’Grady, successfully elevated the family store into an established food company.
Inspired by Henry’s vision, the 3 young entrepreneurs used the product as a springboard to expand their offerings. Over the years, La Preferida has grown to more than 250 products including canned beans, rice, hominy, olive oil, seasonings, salsas, refried beans, peppers and a variety of other grocery products. Generations of consumers continue to embrace La Preferida as the brand they trust.
Four generations later, our family’s commitment to superior quality and flavor continues. Our mission to deliver an authentic food experience in every product remains true. Just as it was almost 100 years ago, by my father, Henry Alphonse Steinbarth.
Saludos!
Ralph Henry Steinbarth and family
Honing in on the growing needs of Chicago’s diverse community, our family opens a storefront, offering a variety of meats, cheeses, and baked goods. With an influx of Mexican and Latin American immigrants making Chicago their new home, our storefront evolved to better serve the new Hispanic community.
By the late 1940s, our storefront had become a business. In 1949, we introduce Chicago to its first packaged chorizo with a new company — La Preferida. Located in Chicago’s historic South Water Market, La Preferida was able to service supermarkets throughout the city.
By 1969, La Preferida had expanded from producing chorizo to producing a variety of authentic Mexican ingredients like beans, peppers, and salsa.
The 1980s saw La Preferida’s break into television, with our first commercial featuring Chicago local talent — Mr. Harry Caray. (HOLY COW!)
As consumers became more health-conscious and demand for organic food increased, we introduced a new line of organic products, featuring some of La Preferida’s best selling items. Since 2009, our organic line has continued to grow into a wide selection of authentic Mexican ingredients.
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Our products are carried by major grocery stores, retailers and independent grocers at thousands of locations throughout the country. Use our Store Locator to find authentic Mexican ingredients near you!