Best of British: Marmite

Posted on January 25th, 2012

To continue with our Best of British series of posts, this month we’re talking about Marmite (in case you missed it, check out our McLaren article). Love it or hate it. Whatever your feelings about that dark brown, intensely flavoured goo, you have to admire the brand.

Marmite is as old as the hills. First discovered in the late 19th century as a by product from the brewing industry. German scientist Justus von Libig discovered that brewer’s yeast could be concentrated and eaten. In 1902 The Marmite Food Extract Company was formed, and Marmite was born. The name comes from a french term for a large, covered cooking pot.

The product was originally sold in earthenware pots until 1920 when it moved to glass jars. From those humble beginnings, the company and product went from strength to strength. Marmite is now available in countries across the globe.

For those that love it, Marmite works well with toast or savoury biscuits. It’s a perfect accompaniment for cheese. It’s also ideal for vegetarians (not to be confused with Bovril, a similar product made from meat extracts).

How do you eat Marmite? (answers below in the comment box below)

The thing that most of you will associate most with Marmite is the creative advertising campaigns. Below are some of our favourite ads. Which is your favourite (let us know using the comment box below).