Why is Spam so popular in America?

Ted Cruz, the US Republican Senator, yesterday claimed that one of the reasons Americans voted against the Republicans in the Midterm elections is because of the cost of living crisis. He says that record numbers of people are resorting to eating Spam. He says, "Here are some stats that are a lot more real and personal. Spam, Hormel’s processed meat substitute, broke record sales, selling 113 million cans last year. That is nearly as much spam as was sold during the entirety of World War II. 29% of Americans have used buy now, pay later for groceries this year. That’s double the share just two years ago.”

So, what is Spam exactly and what is its history?

Joining Seán to discuss is Regina Sexton, Food Historian at UCC.