I remember the one, and only, time I ever kissed the Devil's anus (i.e.: ate Marmite). First time in England, at breakfast. There it was, in a nice little package like a pat of butter. I asked someone what it was and he said that it was the same thing as Vegemite, which I also had not had (and never will), but had at least heard of it (thanks to that song "I Come From The Land Down Under" {you remember: "I said do you speak-a my language? He just smiled and gave me a Vegemite sandwich. Do you come from the land Down Under?" etc.})
So, I took a piece of toast.
And I took that pat of Marmite, not just one but several. And I lathered it on thick, like peanut butter on a PB&J.
And then I took a great big bite.
Oh...my...GOD!
First imagine a ripe, rotting fish all slimy and puffed up in the sun. Now have it floating on a stagnant open sewer in Southeast Asia. Pull out that fish and take a bite.
I vomited in my napkin.
Marmite: Just Say No.
What I don't understand is how that became a manufactured product. I can understand how it might have been invented. No doubt someone ran out of Scott towels and used a piece of Wonder Bread to clean out the latrine.
But what in blazes ever allowed someone to take the SECOND bite of Marmite at its invention? Much less think "Oh YEAH! I'm gonna make a FORTUNE selling this stuff!"
This just HAS to be one of those foods that cultures make for people to eat on a dare.
"Now have it floating on a stagnant open sewer in Southeast Asia."
I am familiar with those sewers; good analogy!