A survey of 2,000 Brits found that Gen Z are breaking with tradition by adding an array of unconventional condiments to their festive plates
Gen Z’s Christmas dinners are getting a quirky twist this year, with many young Brits opting for more than just the traditional gravy. A survey of 2,000 adults who celebrate Christmas revealed that Gen Z are shaking up the festive feast by adding a variety of unconventional sauces to their plates.
Hot sauce such as sriracha (36%), curry sauce (39%), salad cream (25%), barbecue sauce (21%), and sweet chilli sauce (21%) are all making their way onto the Christmas table. Over half of Gen Z (51%) have slathered mayo on their Christmas dinner, and an even larger number (56%) have smothered it in ketchup.
While some might see it as a saucy scandal, the study found that 43% of Gen Z don’t want to be bound by tradition and would prefer a non-traditional condiment like ketchup over gravy for their Christmas meal.
For many, sauce is a must: over half (51%) said Christmas dinner would be spoilt without their favourite sauce, while nearly six in ten (58%) would struggle to live without their preferred condiment.
Subway commissioned a study to celebrate the launch of three Christmas baubles, shaped like sauce bottles and inspired by its most popular sauces – Chipotle Southwest, Sweet Onion, and Honey Mustard. These are all made in the UK from 100% recycled plastic.
A spokesperson for the sandwich chain, which is offering the limited-edition Christmas baubles in a free giveaway from 10am today said: “There’s no denying that Brits take their sauces seriously, and we love seeing what unique flavour combinations our customers come up with.
“The sauce is what makes the Sub, and to celebrate this, we’ve created our own baubles inspired by some fan favourites. And to spread some joy this Christmas, they’re up for grabs for free.”
The survey also revealed Gen Z’s passion for condiments extends beyond the dinner table. It showed that 44% have had disagreements with friends or family over sauce choices, 43% have refused a meal because their favourite wasn’t available.
What’s more, 32% have brought their own sauce to dinner, and nearly a quarter (24%) confess to eating a condiment straight from the bottle.
