Tupperware Brands Corporation, whose food containers have been a mainstay in American kitchens, has filed for bankruptcy.

Tupperware and some of its subsidiaries have filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, the once-iconic food container maker said in a statement.

A kitchen staple may soon be getting shelved. Iconic 78-year-old food container pioneer Tupperware filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Tuesday, Sept. 17 amid a years-long slump in sales. The company known worldwide for its "Tupperware Parties" is now seeking court approval to

Tupperware was created in Leominster in the 1940s by local chemist Earl S. Tupper. At that time, Leominster was home to a booming plastics industry, including the Viscoloid Company, founded in 1901, which made toys out of pyroxylin plastic.

The iconic Tupperware brand has filed for bankruptcy due to waning sales and high debt. The company hopes to restructure to a more digitally focused market.

The brand, once so popular it became the name of an entire product category, has seen sales fall as consumer behaviors change and competition increases.

Tupperware, known the world over for its plastic food storage containers, has filed for bankruptcy after years of falling popularity and financial troubles.

Tupperware is best known for its once-iconic, colorful food storage containers. Here's what we know so far after the company filed for bankruptcy.

Fans are mourning the failure of the famous brand, a longtime kitchen staple hailed around the world for its durability.

Tupperware containers were invented by Earl Tupper in 1946 © SSPL/ A combination of factors dragged the company down: a backlash against plastic, a patchy global distribution network and the increasing anachronism of house party sales in the age of online shopping.