Aunt Jemima To Change Name And Image Due To Origins Based On Racial Stereotype

Aunt Jemima, a Quaker Oats brand that’s been around for over 130 years, is about to have a full makeover. According to the company, the syrup and pancakes products will be completely rebranded and their packages redesigned.

According to CBS, the company said that many of their customers have reached out to criticize the use of the Aunt Jemima name and character on the packaging. While the image of Aunt Jemima has been updated over time, critics say it still perpetuates racist stereotypes dating back to the era of slavery.

So Quaker says it has decided to completely change the name and design of the products.

Kristin Kroepfl, vice president and chief marketing officer of Quaker Foods North America, said in a press release:

“We recognize Aunt Jemima’s origins are based on a racial stereotype. While work has been done over the years to update the brand in a manner intended to be appropriate and respectful, we realize those changes are not enough,” Kroepfl continued.

New packaging will begin to appear in the fourth quarter of 2020, Quaker said. The new name will be announced at a later date.

In addition to removing the imagery and changing the name, the company will “continue the conversation by gathering diverse perspectives from both our organization and the Black community to further evolve the brand and make it one everyone can be proud to have in their pantry,” Kroepfl said.