Oreo is an American brand of sandwich cookie consisting of two chocolate-flavored cocoa wafers with a sweet crème filling in the center. Introduced in 1912, Oreo has grown into the world’s best-selling cookie brand and is sold in more than 100 countries. It is owned by Mondelez International and produced under the Nabisco brand in many markets. [1]

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Oreo was first produced on March 6, 1912, by the National Biscuit Company (Nabisco) at its bakery in Chelsea Market, Manhattan, New York. The cookie was originally sold as the Oreo Biscuit in decorative metal tins. [1]

Over time, the product’s official name changed several times:

• 1912: Oreo Biscuit

• 1921: Oreo Sandwich

• 1937: Oreo Crème Sandwich

• 1974: Oreo Chocolate Sandwich Cookie

Although the official name evolved, consumers have consistently referred to the product simply as Oreo. [1]

The exact origin of the name “Oreo” remains unknown.

Several popular theories include:

• It comes from the French word “or”, meaning gold, referencing the original gold-colored packaging.

• It derives from the Greek word “oreo,” meaning mountain or hill.

• It was created by placing the letters “RE” from the word “cream” between two “O”s.

Nabisco has never officially confirmed any of these explanations. [2]

A classic Oreo consists of:

• Two embossed chocolate wafers

• A sweet vanilla-flavored crème filling

The cookie features an intricate embossed pattern with the Oreo logo surrounded by decorative geometric designs, making it one of the most recognizable cookie designs in the world. [1]

According to Mondelez, producing and baking an Oreo cookie takes approximately two hours. The cookies are manufactured in facilities around the world to supply regional markets. [3]

Oreo is available in more than 100 countries, making it one of the most internationally recognized snack brands.

Major markets include:

• United States

• China

• India

• Japan

• South Korea

• United Kingdom

• Canada

• Australia

• Brazil

• Philippines

The brand often introduces flavors tailored to local tastes, such as green tea, blueberry ice cream, strawberry, and other region-specific varieties. [3]

Over the years, Oreo has expanded far beyond its original cookie. Popular varieties include:

• Original Oreo

• Double Stuf Oreo

• Mega Stuf Oreo

• Golden Oreo

• Mint Oreo

• Chocolate Creme Oreo

• Birthday Cake Oreo

• Red Velvet Oreo

• Peanut Butter Oreo

• Gluten-Free Oreo

• Oreo Thins

• Mini Oreo

• Seasonal and limited-edition flavors

The brand also collaborates with entertainment franchises and celebrities to release special-edition products. [1]

Oreo is known for memorable advertising campaigns centered on fun, sharing, and playful rituals.

Some of its best-known slogans include:

• Milk’s Favorite Cookie

• Wonderfilled

• Stay Playful

• Only Oreo

The iconic “Twist, Lick, Dunk” ritual has become one of the brand’s defining marketing themes. [3]

Oreo positions itself as a brand that encourages:

• Family bonding

• Creativity

• Sharing

• Playfulness

• Nostalgia

Its signature blue packaging and black-and-white cookie design are among the most recognizable visual identities in the snack industry. [4]

• 1912 – First Oreo produced in New York.

• 1921 – Renamed “Oreo Sandwich.”

• 1937 – Became “Oreo Crème Sandwich.”

• 1974 – Introduction of Double Stuf Oreo.

• 1993 – Sold in 30 countries.

• 2002 – The street where Oreo was first made was ceremonially named Oreo Way.

• 2006 – Became China’s best-selling biscuit.

• 2012 – Celebrated its 100th anniversary.

• Today – Sold in more than 100 countries with numerous flavor variations. [3]

• Oreo is widely recognized as the world’s best-selling cookie. [3]

• Billions of Oreo cookies are produced each year. [3]

• The annual production of Oreo cookies would be enough to circle the Earth multiple times if placed edge to edge. [3]

• Oreo’s original manufacturing location in New York is commemorated with the street name Oreo Way. [3]

Oreo was originally created by the National Biscuit Company (Nabisco). Following corporate acquisitions and restructuring, the brand is now owned by Mondelez International, one of the world’s largest snack food companies. [1]

For more than a century, Oreo has evolved from a single chocolate sandwich cookie into a globally recognized food brand with a broad portfolio of products and flavors. Its distinctive design, consistent branding, and emphasis on playful experiences have helped it remain one of the most recognizable and successful snack brands worldwide. [3]

1. Oreo

2. Who Owns Oreo? | Mondelez International Ownership | Who Brands

3. Oreo | Mondelēz International, Inc.

4. Bringing Families Together | OREO