StarKist Co. is a food company that is focused on healthy, shelf-stable products in the United States. An industry innovator, StarKist was the first brand to introduce StarKist single-serve pouch products, which include Tuna, Salmon and Chicken Creations, and StarKist Selects E.V.O.O. As America’s favorite tuna*, StarKist represents a tradition of quality, consumer trust and a commitment to sustainability. StarKist Co. originated from the French Sardine Company, founded in 1917, and first marketed tuna under the StarKist name in 1942. Our charismatic brand icon, Charlie® the Tuna, swam into the hearts of tuna fans in 1961 and is still a fan favorite today.
In 2017, StarKist® celebrated its 100th anniversary!
It was purchased by Dongwon from the American food manufacturer Del Monte Foods on June 24, 2008, for slightly more than $300 million.
Founded in 1969, Dongwon Group began as a fisheries business and branched out into various sectors including a strong food & beverage manufacturing arm, Dongwon F&B. Dongwon F&B now owns 75% of canned tuna market share in Korea. Dongwon Industries is one of the world's largest tuna catching companies with a fleet of 36 boats. Dongwon's world class fish procurement and processing capacity builds on StarKist's national brand recognition and distribution networks in the United States to bring world-class seafood to consumers worldwide. Dongwon Group also has a presence in the logistics, telecommunications and construction sectors.