Marmite

Marmite

Product type	Food spread
Owner	Unilever
Country	United Kingdom
Introduced	1902

Marmite is a dark brown, sticky, salty spread with a distinctive, powerful flavor. It is made from yeast extract, a byproduct of beer brewing. Marmite was first produced in the United Kingdom in 1902 by the Marmite Food Company, which later became part of Unilever.

Marmite is often eaten as a spread on toast or crackers, and can also be used as an ingredient in cooking. It is particularly popular in the United Kingdom, but is also consumed in other parts of the world, including Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Despite its popularity, Marmite is a polarizing food, with some people loving its strong, savory flavor, while others find it unpleasant. The company's slogan, "Love it or hate it," reflects this divisive reputation.

History

Marmite was first created by a German scientist named Justus von Liebig in the late 19th century. He discovered that brewer's yeast could be concentrated, bottled, and eaten as a nutritious food supplement. The product was originally called "Liebig's Extract of Meat," but was later renamed Marmite, after a French term for a large, covered earthenware or metal cooking pot.

The Marmite Food Company was founded in 1902, and began producing Marmite in Burton upon Trent, a town in central England. During World War I and World War II, Marmite was supplied to British troops as a source of vitamins and minerals.

In the 21st century, Marmite has become an iconic British brand, and has inspired a variety of merchandise, including clothing, kitchenware, and novelty items.

Production

Marmite is made from yeast extract, a byproduct of beer brewing. The yeast is brewed with salt and other ingredients to create a thick, sticky paste. The paste is then blended, packaged, and sold as Marmite.

Marmite is vegetarian and vegan, and is also gluten-free.

Cultural significance

Marmite has become a cultural icon in the United Kingdom, and is often referenced in popular culture. The spread has inspired a variety of merchandise, including clothing, kitchenware, and novelty items.

In addition to its popularity in the United Kingdom, Marmite is also consumed in other parts of the world, particularly in former British colonies such as Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Advertising

Marmite's advertising campaigns have been notable for their humorous and sometimes controversial tone. The company's slogan, "Love it or hate it," has become a catchphrase, and has been used in a variety of advertising campaigns.

In 2013, Marmite released a controversial television advertisement in which the spread was compared to "the neglect of a pet." The ad received mixed reactions, with some viewers finding it amusing and others finding it offensive.

See also

• Vegemite, a similar spread popular in Australia
• Bovril, a similar spread made from beef extract

External links

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Official website