10 Controversial Foods That People Either Love or Hate

Food preferences can be highly divisive, turning friends into foes at the dinner table. Some dishes spark heated debates and strong opinions. Which side are you on?

1. Cilantro

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Cilantro has a unique flavor that some describe as fresh and citrusy. However, a significant number of people think it tastes like soap due to genetic factors. This herb either enhances a dish or ruins it completely.

2. Pineapple on Pizza

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Pineapple on pizza is a topic that sparks passionate arguments. Some people love the sweet and savory combination, while others think it’s a culinary abomination. Is this topping a delightful twist or an insult to Italian tradition?

3. Anchovies

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Anchovies are known for their intense, salty flavor. They are beloved by some for adding umami to dishes but are equally loathed by others for their overpowering taste. Whether they’re on pizza or in a Caesar salad, anchovies divide opinions sharply.

4. Black Licorice

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Black licorice has a strong, anise-like flavor that people either adore or detest. Fans appreciate its unique taste, while detractors find it medicinal and unpleasant. It’s a candy that rarely elicits a neutral response.

5. Durian

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Durian is famous for its pungent smell, often compared to rotting garbage or dirty socks. Those who can get past the odor enjoy its creamy, sweet flesh, but many are repulsed by its stench. This tropical fruit is a true test of culinary bravery.

6. Blue Cheese

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Blue cheese, with its bold and tangy flavor, is a polarizing dairy product. Some revel in its pungency and complexity, while others can’t stand its strong smell and taste. It’s either a gourmet delight or a stinky nightmare.

7. Oysters

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Oysters are cherished by some for their briny, oceanic taste and luxurious texture. Yet, many people are put off by their sliminess and the idea of eating raw shellfish. Oysters are either a delicacy or a disgust in a half-shell.

8. Marmite

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Marmite is a spread made from yeast extract with a very distinctive taste. Its slogan, “Love it or hate it,” perfectly captures the public’s reaction. Fans enjoy its savory intensity, while detractors find it overwhelmingly salty and bitter.

9. Natto

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Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans, known for its strong smell, slimy texture, and acquired taste. It’s a staple for some, especially for its health benefits, but others can’t get past its challenging characteristics. You either relish natto or recoil from it.

10. Haggis

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Haggis, a Scottish dish made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs mixed with oatmeal and spices, encased in a sheep’s stomach, is highly divisive. Some appreciate its rich, savory flavor and cultural significance, while others are deterred by its ingredients and preparation. It’s a dish that either evokes pride or prompts avoidance.

The Great Food Divide

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Food can bring us together, but it can also highlight our differences in taste. Which side do you fall on with these controversial foods? Is there a food you love that everyone else seems to hate?

The post 10 Controversial Foods That People Either Love or Hate first appeared on Mama Say What?!

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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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