Love it or hate it, New Zealanders are having to go without it as the Marmite shortage rocks the country. If you thought the Norwegian butter
crisis was bad that’s nothing in comparison to the potential rationing of Marmite that could hit New Zealand if stocks are not replenished soon.
In a crisis that has been dubbed by many “Marmageddon”, New Zealand’s only Marmite factory was closed due to earthquake damage in November, and is not set to reopen until July. The crisis has even affected New Zealand’s Prime Minister, who has admitted to being down to his last jar, and will be spreading his toast very thinly until July when stocks have been replenished. Experts are recommending that Kiwis start to ration themselves in order to avoid running out completely in the interim, spreading it thinly on toast and only having it once a day. People have been asked to be considerate of their fellow Marmite loving citizens and not panic buy. It is only a temporary shortage and no need to panic.
Now, the logical minded amongst you may be wondering why they do not simply import Marmite to tide them over during this difficult time. Well, Nibblers, apparently the Australian equivalent, named Vegemite and the British product of the same name are simply not the same. According to About.com’s Elaine Lemm
“Marmite original was easy as it is a flavour I am well used to. The saltiness is balanced by a slight sweetness with a smooth, silky texture.
The Vegemite, I am sorry to say I didn’t like, despite wanting to. I found something in the smell slightly off-putting, though I couldn’t quite put my finger on why, and the flavour was weak and insipid with a tangy after taste which I found unappealing.”
We are unclear what the difference is between British and Kiwi Marmite, if you have tried both and would care to venture an opinion then we would love to hear from you. As far as we are aware Marmite remains illegal in Denmark.
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