Bonne Maman: The Story Behind France’s Beloved Jam Brand

Few pantry items evoke as much warmth and nostalgia as a jar of Bonne Maman jam. With its signature red-and-white gingham lid and charming handwritten label, Bonne Maman has become a beloved staple in homes across the globe. But Bonne Maman is more than just a pretty jar - it’s a story of tradition, simplicity, and a passion for bringing authentic French flavors to your table.

Let’s dive into the history, philosophy, and irresistible flavors that have made Bonne Maman one of the most iconic French brands in the world.

1. The Humble Beginning of Bonne Maman

Bonne Maman, which translates to “Good Mother” or “Granny,” was founded in the village of Biars-sur-Cère in southwest France in the 1970s. Its founders wanted to recreate the taste and feel of homemade jam - something that evoked Sunday breakfasts, family gatherings, and the comforts of home.

Unlike other brands that rely on artificial additives, Bonne Maman’s mission was simple:

• Use whole, ripe fruit

• Sweeten with cane sugar

• Keep recipes as close to traditional French kitchen methods as possible

This dedication quickly set Bonne Maman apart from other jams on the market and built a loyal following.

2. The Signature Look

Bonne Maman jars are instantly recognizable, thanks to their red-and-white gingham lids and classic white labels with handwritten typography. This packaging reflects the brand’s promise of authenticity - it looks as if it came straight from your grandmother’s pantry.

The design has remained virtually unchanged for decades, proving that sometimes simplicity is timeless.

3. Pure, Simple Ingredients

Bonne Maman is proud of its short and clean ingredient lists. You won’t find artificial colors, high fructose corn syrup, or preservatives in their jams. Instead, they rely on:

• Whole fruit carefully selected for ripeness

• Pure cane sugar for natural sweetness

• Lemon juice concentrate as a natural preservative

This commitment to transparency and quality has made Bonne Maman a trusted brand among parents, home bakers, and anyone looking for wholesome food choices.

4. Flavors That Tell a Story

Bonne Maman offers a beautiful range of flavors, from classic fruit preserves to unique, seasonal creations. Popular varieties include:

• Strawberry Preserves – a breakfast classic

• Apricot Preserves – perfect with scones or yogurt

• Raspberry Preserves – a favorite for baking thumbprint cookies

• Wild Blueberry Preserves – bursting with flavor

• Chestnut Spread – a French holiday favorite

• Four Fruits Preserves – a blend of cherry, strawberry, redcurrant, and raspberry

Each flavor is crafted to highlight the natural sweetness and character of the fruit, creating jams that taste homemade.

5. A Global Pantry Staple

What started as a small village jam company is now a worldwide brand, available in over 120 countries - including the US. For European expats, Bonne Maman is a comforting reminder of home. For American food lovers, it’s a chance to bring a bit of French elegance to their breakfast table.

6. More Than Just Jam

Bonne Maman has expanded its product range over the years to include:

• Honey

• Caramel & Chocolate Spreads

• Biscuit Cookies & Tartlets

• Jellies & Compotes

This diversification has made Bonne Maman a go-to brand not just for breakfast, but for snacking, baking, and gifting.

7. Why Bonne Maman Matters

Bonne Maman represents a return to simple pleasures - the kind of food that feels good to eat and share. In a world of overly processed products, Bonne Maman’s commitment to quality and authenticity makes it stand out.

For foodies, it’s a reliable brand for recipes. For parents, it’s a clean-label option for kids’ snacks. And for anyone seeking comfort, it’s a reminder that life’s sweetest moments often come in the simplest packages.

Conclusion

Bonne Maman is more than jam - it’s a taste of French tradition, a celebration of natural ingredients, and a brand that has earned its place in kitchens around the world. Whether you’re spreading it on warm toast, baking it into a tart, or gifting a jar to a friend, Bonne Maman is a small but meaningful way to bring a bit of France into everyday life.

Explore Bonne Maman’s full range at Pick and Get and discover your favorite flavors today.