Florida is known for its sunny beaches, diverse culture, and delicious cuisine. But there is one food that Floridians seem to despise more than any other: licorice.
What is licorice and why do people hate it?
Licorice is a plant that has a sweet and bitter flavor. It is often used to make candy, medicine, and flavoring agents. Licorice candy can be black or red, depending on the ingredients and coloring used. Some people enjoy the distinctive taste of licorice, while others find it repulsive.
According to a survey by Hater, a dating app that matches people based on their dislikes, licorice is the most hated food in Florida. The app analyzed data from over 500,000 users across the US and found that licorice was the least liked food in 13 states, including Florida. The app also revealed that other foods hated by state include:
- Hawaii – Coke
- Texas – steak cooked well done
- New York – ranch on pizza
- Ohio – pesto
- South Dakota – expensive cheese plates
- Utah – balsamic vinegar
- Colorado – Flaming Hot Cheetos
- Louisiana – cookies with raisins
- Alabama – Chipotle
- Montana – pumpkin spice anything
What are the health benefits and risks of licorice?
Licorice has been used for centuries as a herbal remedy for various ailments, such as coughs, ulcers, sore throat, and arthritis. Licorice contains a compound called glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. Licorice can also help regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, and soothe digestive issues.
However, licorice can also have some negative effects on health, especially if consumed in large amounts or for a long time. Licorice can cause high blood pressure, low potassium levels, fluid retention, and irregular heartbeat. Licorice can also interact with some medications, such as blood thinners, diuretics, and steroids. Licorice can also affect hormone levels, especially in women, and may cause menstrual irregularities, infertility, and miscarriage.
How to enjoy licorice without hating it?
If you are one of the few Floridians who love licorice, or if you want to give it a try, here are some tips on how to enjoy licorice without hating it:
Choose natural licorice over artificial licorice. Natural licorice is made from the root of the licorice plant, while artificial licorice is made from sugar, corn syrup, and flavorings. Natural licorice has a more complex and subtle flavor, while artificial licorice has a more intense and synthetic taste.
Pair licorice with other flavors that complement or contrast it. For example, you can pair licorice with chocolate, mint, lemon, or ginger. You can also pair licorice with salty or spicy foods, such as pretzels, nuts, or chili. These combinations can balance out the sweetness and bitterness of licorice and create a more satisfying experience.
Limit your intake of licorice and monitor your health. As mentioned above, licorice can have some adverse effects on health if consumed in excess or for a long time. Therefore, it is advisable to limit your intake of licorice to no more than 2 ounces per day and to consult your doctor before taking licorice if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications.
Conclusion
Licorice is a controversial food that is loved by some and hated by many. According to a survey by Hater, licorice is the most hated food in Florida, as well as in 12 other states. Licorice has some health benefits and risks, depending on the amount and duration of consumption. Licorice can be enjoyed in moderation and with other flavors that enhance or contrast its taste. Whether you love it or hate it, licorice is a food that has a long history and a unique flavor that is worth trying at least once.