Goya Black Beans: 90 Years of Latin Kitchen Tradition in the US

A can of black beans may look simple on the pantry shelf, but for many home cooks, it carries the weight of family dinners, weeknight shortcuts and recipes passed across generations.

As Goya Foods celebrates its 90th anniversary this year, one of its most familiar staples remains central to that story. The company, founded by Spanish immigrants in a small Lower Manhattan storefront in 1936, has grown into the largest Hispanic-owned food company in the United States, with more than 2,500 products and 25 manufacturing, packaging and distribution facilities worldwide.

Its black beans, long used in soups, stews, rice dishes, salads and traditional Latin recipes, continue to be one of the brand’s signature pantry items. They’re the No. 1 black beans in total U.S. dollar and unit sales, according to Circana data for total U.S. multi-outlet sales for the year ending July 16, 2026. The company says they’re also the No. 1 USDA Grade Beans, as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture when growing conditions allow.

The appeal is not hard to understand. Black beans are inexpensive, filling and adaptable, with a creamy texture and earthy flavor that can anchor a quick lunch or round out a larger meal. Goya’s version is low in fat, contains no saturated fat, is cholesterol-free, gluten-free and Kosher Certified. It is also an excellent source of fiber and a good source of iron, potassium and plant protein.

Along with several other Goya products, the brand’s iconic black beans boast the ChefsBest Excellence Award, which is earned by surpassing quality standards established by professional chefs. ChefsBest Certified Master Tasters, guided by trained moderators, use a scientific methodology to evaluate quality.

Goya’s anniversary has also included a strengthened focus on giving back through Goya Gives. Citing USDA data, the brand noted that some 47 million Americans live in food-insecure households, with 13.5% of U.S. households experiencing food insecurity at some point each year.

On March 31, the 90th day of 2026, the company marked Goya Gives Day by donating 1 million pounds of food to communities across the U.S., Puerto Rico and Spain. The effort brought together Goya facilities, employees and more than 100 community partners.

“For 90 years, Goya has been more than a food company — we are a family committed to serving other families,” Peter Unanue, President of Goya Foods, said in a statement. “Goya Gives Day represents our gratitude to the communities that have embraced us for nearly a century. Donating one million pounds of food on the 90th day of our 90th year is not only symbolic — it reflects our ongoing promise to stand with those in need.”

For a company built around foods that remind people of home, the humble black bean remains a fitting symbol.