Marmite yeast extract

Marmite is one of the most culturally significant and polarizing food products in the United Kingdom, famously marketed with the slogan "Love it or hate it." Invented in 1902 by the Marmite Food Extract Company, the spread is a concentrated yeast extract made from the by-products of the beer brewing process. Its primary production facility has remained in Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire, since its inception, taking advantage of the town's historic brewing industry for a steady supply of raw yeast.

Historically, the brand saw significant growth after the discovery of vitamins in 1912, as its high B-vitamin content led to its inclusion in British military rations during both World Wars. In terms of ownership, the brand transitioned through several hands before being acquired by Unilever in 2000. In a landmark deal finalized in early 2026, Unilever merged its global food business with the American spice giant McCormick & Company. While the combined entity is known as McCormick and headquartered in the United States, Unilever retains a 65% majority stake in the food-focused spin-off. Manufacturing for the British market continues at the historic Burton-upon-Trent site, maintaining the product's deep-rooted heritage.