Tell me what you like, and I'll tell you your generation. Well, not quite - but there sure are some foods that give you away. Just like we millennials can't get enough of our Pop Tarts and matcha lattes, boomers have their favorite foods that have stuck with them through the years. If you ask me, and fellow foodies, these are some of them!
Fruit Cake
Fruit cake is a dense, candied fruit-filled holiday treat, and a cherished tradition for many boomers - my parents included. It continues to hold a special place in holiday celebrations for many, but I'm not sure even boomers enjoy it? My parents often buy or make one for Christmas, but I don't think they ever end up actually finishing it...
Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that was a staple in many baby boomer households. Its hearty, savory flavors and economical use of ground meat made it a practical and beloved dish. My Gen X (...1 year from boomer status...) sister still loves meatloaf, but as a millennial, I don't really get the point. Why not just have meatballs, which are bound to be far juicier and more delicious?
Fish Sticks
Fish sticks are a convenient freezer staple that offers an easy way to enjoy seafood. These days most of us prefer fresh fish instead, but they still hold a place in the heart of may boomers. Call me a boomer wannabe - but I also always have a package of these on hand; I love them for a cheap and east version of fish and chips!
Margarine
Margarine gained popularity as a butter substitute in the mid-20th century. While it served its purpose back then, today most of us prefer real butter, or even a vegan alternative like olive oil. And to be honest, butter and olive oil do make food taste so much better! Even my boomer mom has gotten this memo.
Sardines
Sardines, with their robust flavor and high nutritional value, were a common food choice for baby boomers. However, they have quite the distinct taste, and I for one am not a fan. But would you know, my boomer dad sure loves them!
Miracle Whip
Miracle Whip, a sweeter alternative to mayonnaise, found its place into many baby boomer kitchens. I have never actually had this, and I can't say I'm sad about it... a sweet mayo, who even came up with that?! I bet the same person who came up with jello salads... yes, I said what I said!
Tuna Casserole
The tuna casserole is a true comfort food, combining canned tuna, noodles, cheese, and often cream of mushroom soup. While it does provide an easy and satisfying meal, us in the younger generation are a bit skeptical to the use of things like canned soups in casseroles. Also, I for one can not stand canned tuna, and while adding cheese makes most things better - I'm not sure even that can save a can of tuna!
Artificial Sweetener
Artificial sweeteners are still widely used in various food and drink products, but as concerns over their health impacts have grown, many have shifted towards natural sweeteners or reduced overall sugar consumption instead. I, for one, would definitely rather have a sugar-filled soda than a diet one—at least with sugar; I know it's bad for me and will consume it accordingly.
Bologna Sandwiches
Bologna sandwiches were a quick, convenient lunch option for baby boomers. However, the ultra-processed bologna is not entirely aligned with modern preferences for whole, minimally processed foods.
Ambrosia
Ambrosia, a sweet fruit salad with marshmallows and coconut, used to be a popular dessert. Its sweet, creamy flavors were a hit at dinner parties, but its high sugar content is not as appealing in today's health-conscious culture. Why not just have a fruit salad for a healthy treat - do you have to add marshmallows as well?!
Canned Soup
Canned soup is a pantry staple for many boomers, offering an easy and quick meal option, or to add to previously mentioned tuna casseroles. However, with a preference for fresher, homemade meals and a desire for more natural ingredients it's not as common in modern households. I often have a can or two on hand, but that's for emergencies only. I would never make it on a regular Tuesday night - or use it in casseroles, which seems to be a boomer favorite.
Egg Salad
Egg salad sandwiches has been a classic lunch choice for many boomers. And it's still going strong, but now it's often lightened up and made with yogurt instead of mayonnaise, or served in avocados instead of on top of toast. I might be in the minority here, but I can't stand eggs, and combining it with lots of mayonnaise is definitely not going to make it better!
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