The Most Hated Foods In America

Food is a matter of preference, and for every food that you love, it might be someone else’s least favorite. However, it appears that there are a few foods that most Americans can agree are downright gross. Whether it’s texture, taste, or just a mental block, these are the top 9 most hated foods in America.

Anchovies

Few foods divide people like anchovies. These salty little fish pack an intense flavor that either delights or disgusts. While they add a punch to Caesar salads and pizzas, many Americans can’t get past their fishy smell and slimy texture.

Olives

While some people advocate hard for olives on pizza, salads, and sandwiches, this is another divisive ingredient in the U.S. Their strong, bitter flavor makes them a favorite in Mediterranean dishes but a hard pass for some pickier eaters. Olives are one of the common ingredients that tends to get picked out of salads and left on plates. 

Liver

Despite once being a staple in American households, liver has fallen far out of favor for most people. The combination of metallic taste with chewy texture makes it hard to like. And it doesn’t look all that appetizing either. Despite being rich in iron and vitamins, liver’s reputation easily lands it on the lsit of most-hated foods. 

Brussels Sprouts

As far as veggies go, brussel sprouts tend to get a bad rap. Likely, because they are incredibly hard to make well, requiring expertise roasting and seasoning techniques to get crispy. More often they’re a mushy mess.

Tofu

While tofu can take on the flavor of almost anything you cook it in, the texture tends to throw people off. And eaten alone, it is quite bland. The soft, spongy texture can turn off meat-eaters who aren’t used to plant-based proteins. 

Blue Cheese

Blue cheese is an ingredient that tends to invite strong reactions, most of which re negative. Its pungent aroma and moldy appearance make it an acquired taste. Many Americans have trouble getting a whiff of this stuff, let alone eating it.

Cilantro

Cilantro is famously divisive because genetics play a role in whether people enjoy it or not. To some, it tastes fresh and citrusy, but to others, it actually tastes like soap. This herb has earned a surprising amount of online controversy and even inspired anti-cilantro social media groups.

Mayonnaise

Despite being an American kitchen staple in the ‘80s, mayonnaise remains a controversial spread. Its texture alone is enough to turn away some, while others dislike its tangy flavor. Still, it remains one of the most widely used condiments in the country, especially hidden in dips and dressings.

Squid

Raw fish in general is a tough sell for many people in American. And squid is often associated with a fishy smell that isn’t all that pleasing. Lots of people mention squid just has an “ick” factor that they can’t get over.