A popular British condiment has been discontinued after nearly two centuries, but the decision may be reversed after fans have been begging for it to stay.
Gentleman’s Relish is a traditional, salty and savoury Victorian-era spread made from anchovies, butter, herbs, and spices, typically used on toast or to elevate meats.
It was first created in 1828 and later marketed to the public in 1849 when it was launched at the Paris Food Show.
However, now it is set to disappear from shelves altogether, but fans of the condiment have issued a rallying cry to keep it around.
Gentleman’s Relish axed after 177 years as petition launched to save it
The parent company of the food, AB World Foods, has revealed that it has ceased production of the beloved English spread, The Spectator reports.
A spokesman for AB World Foods said: “We can confirm that after some 20 years as custodian of the Gentleman’s Relish brand, we are no longer making Patum Peperium.
“While we recognise that this Victorian relish has a niche and loyal following, it sadly does not have wider commercial appeal and, despite our best efforts, retailer distribution has dwindled.
“With Gentleman’s Relish no longer commercially viable and unable to secure a buyer for the brand, we regrettably stopped production earlier this year.”
When English grocer John Osborn created the spread, he described it as a ‘quintessentially English delicacy’.
It became a staple British food, with James Bond author Ian Fleming a particular fan of the condiment.
Gentleman’s Relish has been discontinued but may be being brought back after public outcry (Image: Getty Images)
Celebrity chef, Nigella Lawson, also previously ranked Gentlemen’s Relish in her top 10 British cooking staples in 2018.
Following the news, a petition was launched, titled ‘Reverse the decision to discontinue The Gentleman’s Relish’.
It has nearly been signed 1,000 times, with other fans of the spread taking to social media to ask for its return.
It said: “The decision to stop producing The Gentleman’s Relish affects not just those of us who love it, but the cultural tapestry of British cuisine.
“AB World Foods, we urge you to reconsider this decision.
“At the very least, selling the brand to another food company or individual willing to continue its production is a viable solution.
“Let’s preserve this unique element of our culinary heritage.”
AB World Foods ‘in early discussions’ to reverse decision to axe Gentleman’s Relish
Following the outcry, the decision to discontinue Gentleman’s Relish may yet be reversed.
AB World Foods has now said it may still be “taking the brand forward”, The Telegraph reports.
A spokesman said: “We have been blown away by the response from Gentleman’s Relish fans since we confirmed our decision to stop production.
“We are grateful to everyone who has taken the time to get in touch.
“Given this strength of feeling, we are pleased to say that we are at the early stages of exploring options with several third parties who have expressed an interest in taking the brand forward.”
Are you a fan of Gentleman’s Relish? Let us know in the comments.
