A recent discussion on the AskUK subreddit has sparked nostalgia and debate about food trends that have come and gone, reflecting on culinary fads that once dominated menus and grocery shelves. Users shared their experiences and opinions on various food crazes that they believe have overstayed their welcome, as well as some that seem to have slipped into obscurity.
Viennetta, a beloved dessert from the 1980s, serves as a backdrop for this exploration into the world of food fads. Once considered a luxurious treat, it now contrasts sharply with the rapid rise and fall of modern culinary trends. Many participants in the discussion lamented the overwhelming presence of certain items, such as the matcha truffle latte, which has left some wondering about its taste.
Shifting Tastes: A Timeline of Food Fads
One user noted the rise of hot honey, comparing it to the previous obsession with salted caramel. Others reminisced about the times when pulled pork was a gourmet staple. The conversation highlighted how quickly food preferences can shift, moving from novelty to ubiquity in just a few years.
Participants readily shared their culinary pet peeves. One user mentioned they were still enduring the “burger on a brioche bun” phase, expressing nostalgia for the simplicity of sesame seed buns. Another user remarked, “I survived the courgetti-gedon,” a reference to the popularity of spiralized vegetables as a health trend.
The influence of international cuisine was also a focal point. For instance, a user praised genuine Dubai chocolate, claiming that local imitations do not measure up. Another noted the increasing popularity of pistachios, recalling a trip to Italy seven years ago where they discovered a plethora of pistachio-flavored products, a stark contrast to their availability at home.
The conversation also touched on the impact of being a niche product that suddenly becomes mainstream. A participant recalled an interview with the owner of Jägermeister, who expressed concern over potential negative associations with their product, particularly from experiences tied to the infamous Jägerbomb.
Current Trends and Future Predictions
As the discussion progressed, users discussed the current fascination with gochujang, a Korean chili paste. One user expressed a desire for more authentic Korean dishes on menus rather than simply adding gochujang to existing offerings. The conversation also revealed a decline in the popularity of red velvet desserts, which were once ubiquitous.
Other trends mentioned included the decline of paninis and a waning of the halloumi obsession. One user remarked on the overwhelming presence of sweet potato fries, expressing relief at their decreased prevalence. They noted that while there was a time when finding regular fries was challenging, this trend seems to be fading.
The conversation also highlighted the shift towards healthier options, with one user commenting, “Protein everything,” reflecting the growing trend of high-protein diets. Another user humorously noted the rise of “fibre goals,” pointing out that the need for increased fibre in diets is a positive takeaway from current trends.
The discussion culminated with criticism of the so-called “fancy pubstraunt” menus that often use elaborate language to describe simple dishes. One participant quipped, “I’m not paying that for fish and chips, no matter how you write it,” pointing out the pretentiousness of hiding prices while trying to elevate ordinary meals.
Reflecting on this vibrant exchange, it is clear that food trends have a profound impact on culinary culture and consumer preferences. Whether they inspire excitement or frustration, these fads shape the way we eat and think about food. As tastes evolve, it will be interesting to see which trends fade into memory and which ones continue to capture the public’s imagination.
