Despite many jokes and rumors about its ingredients, classic SPAM is made from a short list: pork with ham, salt, water, potato starch, sugar, and sodium nitrite. It does not contain mysterious leftover animal parts.
The meat is ground, mixed with the other ingredients, sealed inside cans, and then cooked during processing. This method gives SPAM its long shelf life and distinctive soft, salty texture.
Today, SPAM is eaten around the world and is especially popular in places such as Hawaii, South Korea, and parts of Asia. It can be fried, grilled, added to rice, sandwiches, noodles, or breakfast dishes, although its high sodium content means moderation is a good idea.