When heading to the land down under, a lot of people hear about the mysterious spread, Vegemite. I remember a good friend, Toly, coming back from New Zealand with a jar of Vegemite. He planned a special evening where our group of friends would meet up and try the famous spread. Unfortunately for Toly, we smelled the jar after we asked, “What is Vegemite?” We had no further interest in finding out! Few actually know what it is and even fewer are interested in trying it once they find out. See if you’re one of the daring ones. Who knows, you may just end up liking it!

What is Vegemite?

Vegemite is far more than a yeasty, Australia spread for bread, crackers, and veggies, it’s part of Australian food culture and a favorite of many locals. Ask around. Once you find someone who eats Vegemite, ask them how they like it best. Each person has his or her own preference about what’s best when it comes to eating Vegemite.

Vegemite is a mixture of brewer’s yeast, vegetables, and spices. Though Australia and New Zealand are known for this spread, many locals don’t like it because of its salty, bitter taste. So while most locals you meet can provide answer to the question, “What is Vegemite,” don’t expect that they particularly enjoy it.

When asking about Vegemite, be careful when talking to Australians because many believe that it’s a stereotype; not every Australian eats Vegemite. Try not to insinuate anything about Australian culture and a possible strong connection to Vegemite, this could put you in a less than desirable situation.

Similar products exist elsewhere but it’s difficult to find Vegemite in most countries. The British have Marmite and the Swiss have Cenovis. Marmite came before Vegemite and was most likely the inspiration for Vegemite. Vegemite created by Dr. Cyril P. Callister in 1923, and it had okay sales but it was hard to put a dent in the Marmite market. Thus, the owner of Vegemite changed its name to Parwill. A popular slogan became, “Marmite but Parwill.” The Australians hoped to put a dent in the Marmite market and that they did. Once Parwill finally had a strong holding in the Australian market, the owners changed the name back to Vegemite and ever since, Vegemite has remained popular among many Australians. Today, Kraft foods produce Vegemite and distribute it around the globe.

How do you eat Vegemite?

As I said earlier, everyone has his or her opinion of how to each Vegemite. Often, it’s spread on toast or sandwiches. Sandwiches are probably the most common way to enjoy Vegemite. In the song, “Land Down Under” by the Australian band, Men at Work, the singer says, “He just smiled and gave me a Vegemite sandwich.”

Some people spread a thin layer on toast while others slather the entire piece of toast with Vegemite. Some people like to press Vegemite between two crackers while others like to put it on crackers with tomatoes or avocados. Though each person has an opinion, there really is no right or wrong way to eat Vegemite. Just spread it on some bread, toast, or veggies and you’re ready to go!

Is it true Vegemite is banned in the United States?

No. Some people think that Vegemite is banned in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration but this is totally false. The reason that people don’t find it much in the States is because, for better or worse, few Americans have the acquired taste to enjoy it. In fact, most Americans would ask, “What is Vegemite?” They certainly won’t be buying it soon!