Most Americans would agree that the 12 foods on this list are anything but ordinary—and for many, they're downright unappetizing. These dishes tend to spark strong reactions, with people either turning up their noses or raving about their bold flavors. They’re not your everyday comfort foods, and for the average eater, they might be a bit too much. But for adventurous food lovers, these controversial picks are part of the fun. See how many you’d actually try—and whether you’re a true foodie or firmly in the “no thanks” camp.
Note: The content of this article does not reflect the Writer’s personal beliefs.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are pretty popular and pretty nutritious. But, let's think about what they really are - a sticky, gooey mess. Their gel-like texture gives some people the ick, and the way they stick in your throat while going down might pose a choking hazard for some. No thanks.
Uni
Whoever looked at a sea urchin and thought, well, I bet its insides taste good, is probably crazier than the mad hatter.
Uni might be one of those exotic foods that only became popular because of rich people since it has an intense flavor that doesn’t wash away easily. Its slimy texture can also weird out your taste buds if that makes sense.
Mussels
Sure, this nutritious food might be preferred by people on a limited diet or those looking for a lean protein source.
But it’s hard to imagine someone actually likes the acidic flavor of mussels. They literally taste like the ocean, which means they’re basically salt sludges. And then their rubbery texture. Ew!
Chicken feet
Alright, we’re not trying to offend people who love this cultural delicacy; we’re just saying it’s not for everyone.
While chicken feet may be an appetizing dish for some, many find it disgusting and weird because, well, it’s chicken feet. Even if we get past this mental image, we can’t help but realize where they’ve been. That’s not a pretty picture.
Kombucha
Kombucha got to the heights of stardom just a few years ago thanks to social media, so we’re already apprehensive about it.
And while there are many who say they like this drink, we’re a little suspicious because as good as kombucha can be, it’s certainly not that good. Its intense flavor might not be liked by everyone, even if it’s masked with various fruits.
Anchovies
We’re still in awe that there are people who genuinely like anchovies. This dish is given way too much credit when, in reality, it should just stop existing.
Anchovies are too salty. They have a fishy, pungent smile that completely takes over your nostrils and makes your week a living hell. Plus, what’s up with those teeny tiny bones? Why are we even eating food that can potentially choke us?
Blue cheese
If you’re not puking because of the pungent smell of blue cheese, you’re either completely devoid of 5 senses, or you’re out of your mind.
Blue cheese is very difficult to enjoy. Not only is its smell a major turn-off, but its flavor is weird and sharp and has nothing to offer except distaste. Oh, and are we going to ignore its mushy and moldy texture? Ughh!
Liver
Okay, we don’t really have to think about this one because it’s a very popular food in terms of dislike.
And yet, it still continues to exist, which is infuriating. The liver tastes like you’re eating an old rubber piece that breaks apart into grains the second it goes into your mouth. Its metallic or acidic flavor adds to the nightmarish situation.
Olives
So many people love olives but why?! They can taste too salty from all the brine they’ve been sitting in and are naturally a bit tangy. Plus, they’re both soft and chewy, which is a weird texture to get used to. Seriously, why couldn’t they choose a side?
Mint chocolate foods
You probably have that one friend who orders mint chocolate ice cream or munches on a Nestle After Eight candies way too much.
Mint can pair well with savory foods, but we’re not so sure about chocolate. It’s incredibly hard to like this combo because mint has a distinct toothpasty taste, so it feels like you’re brushing your teeth while there’s still chocolate in your mouth.
Circus Peanuts
Who has ever actually enjoyed eating a circus peanut? We are shocked that these weird, spongy candies are even still around.
They have the worst texture and a terrible, artificial taste that nobody could possibly like. So why are we pretending they are good? This is one terrible food we can all agree to hate.
Oysters
We find it hard to believe that anyone enjoys this slimy, salty food. The slippery texture alone makes us want to run the other way. Plus, oysters are insanely hard to open, so you have to work hard to get to the edible part. Who wants to do that?
This article was first published at Spatula Desserts.
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