Garlic breath – No longer a sin

Garlic has always been thought of a sure fire way to end your date early, but today nearly nine tenths (88%) of Brits say they no longer mind their love interest eating garlic.

In fact, we are embracing garlic like never before, with the herb now rated as the UK’s most popular aromatic plant by over four fifths (85%) of people; way ahead of the nearest ‘traditional’ competitors, Basil (56%) and Parsley (55%).

The research, conducted by Pizza Hut, also found that women and men have different desires and feelings when it comes to garlic. On average, women are 20% more likely to try and eat garlic every day. Men, however, are 50% more likely than women to turn their noses up if their partner exudes garlic when they haven’t savoured any themselves.

The findings also highlight that three quarters (74%) of the population feel that garlic is now one of the most important ingredients in modern British cuisine; with 69% claiming to eat more garlic today than they were ten years ago.

To celebrate garlic being the nation’s number one herb, Pizza Hut has launched its new limited edition Garlic Crust pizza; a brand new garlicky crust to continue to satisfy the taste bud demands of the 85% who love garlic.

“Embracing the nation’s favourite ingredient, we introduced the new Garlic Crust pizza to add to the enjoyment of dining. There’s something about the aroma of cooked garlic, its unique smell can almost let you begin to taste the food before you actually take your first bite – it means the whole eating experience is enhanced with extra garlic flavour.” comments Hugh Wood, chief marketing officer of Pizza Hut.

Peter Josling of The Garlic Information Centre comments; “We’re now eating more garlic than before, it’s great to see so many people enjoying garlic in a variety of foods now – it was only a matter of time before it became the primary flavour of the main course and not just a starter! This research has shown just how in love the country has become with it – I know that I eat garlic every day and I think everyone should too!”

The area of the country where most people are eating a lot more garlic today, compared to ten years ago is the North East (37%), so the neighbouring North West needs to take heed of its most famous funny man, Peter Kay, when he says “Garlic (Bread), it’s the future that is...” as it has some catching up to do.

Historically, of course, garlic is steeped in superstition and this still remains the case, with 16% of Brits believing that garlic can indeed ward off roaming vampires.

• Garlic Crust is on sale from 11 February to 20 April 2008. Available on large pizza only, with any topping combination.

For further information, visit Pizzahut.com.