The humble slice of Vegemite toast is an iconic staple in any Australian household, a simple yet sacred ritual that has been the subject of many a heated debate down under. But when an Aussie expat shared a photo of their attempt at this culinary classic, it sparked a controversy that reached all the way to the top echelons of Vegemite's hierarchy. The expat's heavy-handed approach to our beloved national condiment has been branded as 'criminal' by some, and it's stirred up a conversation that's as old as Vegemite itself.


For those of us over 60, Vegemite has been a part of our lives for as long as we can remember. It's more than just a breakfast spread; it's a taste of home, a reminder of childhood, and for many, an essential comfort food. But as any true-blue Aussie knows, there's an art to creating the perfect Vegemite toast. It's a personal craft, one that's been refined over years of breakfasts, snacks, and late-night munchies.


The debate over the 'correct' amount of Vegemite to spread on toast is a national pastime. It's up there with discussions about whether the Hills Hoist is the best way to dry clothes, or if thongs are acceptable footwear for all occasions. And let's not even start on the correct pronunciation of 'scone'!


When the American expat posted their photo on Reddit, they likely didn't expect to become the center of a cultural maelstrom. The image showed two slices of toast with a layer of Vegemite so thick, it was as if they were trying to paint the bread black. The expat professed their love for salty and savory flavors, but little did they know, they had just waded into one of Australia's most passionate culinary debates.

Responses to the photo ranged from admiration of the expat's boldness to outright horror at the excessive Vegemite. Some commenters joked that the spread was so thick it could qualify the poster for Australian citizenship, while others warned of the dangers of such a heavy-handed approach for a Vegemite novice. The lack of butter, a cardinal sin in the eyes of many Vegemite aficionados, was also a point of contention.

In the wake of this #spreadgate, news.com.au conducted an 'anecdotal investigation' to find the golden ratio of Vegemite to toast. According to the serving suggestion on a 560 gram jar of Vegemite, each serving should be about five grams—or roughly one teaspoon. However, when put to the test, this amount seemed to disappear into the bread, leaving a border devoid of the savory spread.


The 'Head of Spreads' at Bega, the company behind Vegemite, weighed in on the matter. Mary Stafford suggested that for first-timers, a small amount is best, with the option to gradually build up to find the perfect balance. She emphasized that there's no 'right' amount or way to enjoy Vegemite—it's all about personal taste. And as for the butter debate? Stafford called it a 'classic combo,' which we can only interpret as a resounding endorsement for butter.

So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, what's your take on the perfect Vegemite toast? Do you slather it on thick, or are you a fan of the more subtle approach? Do you insist on a generous helping of butter, or do you prefer your Vegemite unadulterated? And what other toppings do you add to elevate your Vegemite toast to the next level?
Let's settle this once and for all—or at least until the next expat comes along and spreads their Vegemite with reckless abandon. Share your Vegemite toast tips, tricks, and traditions in the comments below. After all, if there's one thing that can unite or divide Australians, it's our love for that little jar of black gold.