Product History

More than 130 years of joy in the making

Always on the pulse of time

With Backin, a ready-to-use baking powder, Dr. August Oetker set the stage for our product history in 1893. Gradually, a comprehensive range of products is developed internationally. It is synonymous with innovation, indulgence, and guaranteed success. The range includes powder products, baking ingredients, and flavorings. In the year 1970, Dr. Oetker was the first to introduce frozen pizza in Germany. Since the 1980s, the company has also supplied frozen pizza internationally.

1929 Dr. Oetker products

It all started with the baking powder Backin 

In 1893, after much experimentation, the pharmacist Dr. August Oetker succeeded in developing the decisive recipe. Backin was introduced to the market and remains a successful product. In 1903, Dr. August Oetker’s “process of producing durable baking powder or ready-to-bake flour” was then patented by the Imperial Patent Office as number 144289.

Baking powder Backin: 1893 to present day

1893: After much experimentation, Dr. August Oetker developed his baking powder. It was sold weighed out in sachets, perfectly proportioned for half a kilo of flour.

1903: On September 21, 1903, Dr. August Oetker had it in black and white: His "Process for the Production of Long-lasting Baking Powder or Flour Ready for Baking" was examined and approved by the Imperial Patent Office.

1916: Production of baking powder expanded, with sales rising from 225 million packets and sachets in 1916 to a record 305 million in 1918.

1933: All packages bore the signature of the company founder in handwriting as a clear and personal commitment to the brand and product. So did Backin.

1954: The advertising figure " Ms. Renate" was regarded as the archetype of the modern housewife. With the recommendation "A cake every Sunday – home-baked with Backin," she became the personification of the guarantee of success.

Even today, almost 130 years after its invention by Dr. August Oetker, Backin still enjoys great popularity worldwide.

1983 to today: A journey through time with Backin: from the overflowing goblet as a logo to the Gugelhupf.

Our pizza: It all began with the “Pizza alla Romana”

In 1970, Dr. Oetker launched “Pizza alla Romana,” Germany’s first frozen pizza. The product range grew steadily, and by 1981 the company’s first in-house pizza plant was opened in Germany. In 1985, the classic “Ristorante” pizza, which is still a favorite today, was introduced. The “Ristorante” pizza is an excellent example of our ability to recognize our customers’ preferences, and how we can meet them time and again with our innovative products - after all, only those who keep evolving can survive in the marketplace.  

The Pizza Revolution: 1970 to present day

1970: Dr. Oetker introduces the “Pizza alla Romana”. It is the first frozen pizza on sale in Germany. The dough was baked on an included aluminum tray. After its introduction, the frozen pizza became a lifestyle product.

1982: "A thin crunchy crust and loaded with toppings! Dr. Oetker Knusperia" A few years later, we introduced "Knusperia," the frozen pizza with an extraordinary thin crust.

1985: The beloved classic! A real success story starts with the introduction of "Pizza Ristorante" in the salami and ham varieties.

The 1990s: Fast-food products and drive-in restaurants gain more and more popularity in Europe. Dr. Oetker "Big Americans" brings the flavor of real American pizza to European households.

1999: For the first time since the 1970s, Dr. Oetker presents its customers with a frozen pizza with a base that was not pre-baked, which rises for the first time in the ovens of the customers. A real treat for pizza lovers!

2002: Numerous pizza variations were developed, tested, produced, and sometimes discarded. "Culinaria" was distinguished by a range of international specialties.

2010: Let's go back to basics! Pizza "Tradizionale" brings the taste and aroma of traditional Italian Trattorias to your home. It is baked on a special stone conveyor belt for that extra level of flavor.

2018: "La Mia Grande" is the all-new premium pizza range for those who want it bigger and better. The fluffy-crispy dough and thin base are shaped by hand and feature a variety of beloved toppings.

Over the years: our most famous and unusual products

Ever heard of Dr. Oetker salt?

Odd Dr. Oetker products that came and went.