12 Alabama brands that are pantry must-haves

Every home cook has a collection of Alabama foods they simply refuse to go without. While there is often fierce debate over which pantry items truly define the state’s culinary identity, we recently turned to the community to settle the score.

When This is Alabama reached out to followers to identify these must-have labels, the responses ran the gamut from kitchen-staple seasonings to legendary sweet treats. Whether you are stocking up on Conecuh sausage, Golden Eagle Syrup, Sister Schubert’s rolls, Red Diamond Tea, or Dale’s Seasoning, these brands keep Alabama kitchens running.

Ready to update your shelves? We have compiled a list of the brands that our readers absolutely swear by. You can check out the full conversation on the This is Alabama Facebook page.

Sweet and Savory Staples

If you have a sweet tooth, Golden Eagle Syrup is a Fayette-made essential. Producing sweetness for nearly 100 years, this brand has evolved from a local favorite to a nationwide pantry icon.

Beverage fans continue to champion Red Diamond Coffee and Tea, a Birmingham success story dating back to 1906. Now produced in Moody, their teas and coffees remain a go-to for households across the country. Likewise, Grapico continues to hold its own as a beloved Birmingham-born, caffeine-free soda that has stayed in production for over a century.

Flavor Powerhouses

No steak or chicken dish is truly complete without Dale’s Seasoning. What began in 1946 as a signature marinade at a Birmingham restaurant has since become a staple for home cooks everywhere. For those who prefer a tangier bite, John’s Famous Slaw Dressing offers a unique history, originating at a local Birmingham eatery in 1944 before hitting retail shelves in 1990.

If you are looking to spice up your grill game, Sneaky Pete’s Sauce is a bold, tangy necessity that captures the essence of the Birmingham hot dog chain in a bottle. And for the pickle enthusiasts, Wickles Pickles brings a zesty kick to the table, using a 90-year-old family recipe that has gained massive popularity over the last two decades.

Meat, Bread, and Breakfast Legends

It is impossible to discuss Alabama pantries without mentioning Kelley Foods Products. Founded in 1957 in Elba, this brand remains a Southern favorite for its signature smoky profile. Of course, Conecuh Sausage stands in a league of its own, having recently been dubbed the most iconic breakfast food in the state by Business Insider.

For your morning pancakes or waffles, ALAGA Syrup Company has been a reliable, century-long tradition in the South, operating out of their historic Montgomery location since 1906. To round out the meal, Sister Schubert’s yeast rolls are the undisputed champions of dinner tables everywhere. Born from a 1989 church bake sale, these rolls have expanded their reach across the nation.

Finally, we have Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea. Recently recognized as the state's most loved homegrown brand, this Bessemer-headquartered staple has been a refreshing part of Alabama life since 1946.