London - It’s bitterly divided her loyal subjects – some of whom love it, while others just can’t stand it.
But now the Queen has given Marmite her official seal of approval.
The British spread has joined the likes of Colman’s mustard and Stork margarine in being granted a Royal Warrant.
Holders can display a coat of arms on their products’ packaging, confirming that they have supplied the royal household for at least five years.
Other brands to get the honour for the first time include Knorr, maker of soups and stock pots, and Comfort fabric conditioner. They are among seven brands owned by Anglo-Dutch firm Unilever – including Marmite, Stork and Colman’s – to hold the warrant. The others are Hellmann’s mayonnaise and Persil detergent.
Marmite has been a staple of the British diet since it was first produced in 1902 in Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire, from yeast extract – a by-product of the beer brewing process. The firm’s original yeast supplier was the nearby Bass Brewery.
The spread was so in-demand that a second factory opened in Camberwell Green, south London, in 1907.
Marmite’s ‘love it or hate it’ advertising slogan has become instantly recognisable. It was the nation’s best-selling spread until 2013, when Rowse honey took over the top spot.
Other holders of the Royal Warrant include Tabasco hot sauce and Moet et Chandon champagne.
The recognition has the advantage of boosting exports – with royal-approved products selling well in the US, the Far East and the Commonwealth.
Daily Mail