Biltong. Lays chips. Amarula. Chakalaka and Mrs Balls Chutney. We have many choices in the land of the rainbow, and these are the products that only South Africans can understand the deep love for. But which of the things that remind us of our parents’ homes, or the saving grace of a treat at the Tuckshop during break, are most closely linked to our heritage? Game decided to find out.
The goal was simple: find out which products are the closest lined to our heritage as locals. In other words, which local items are most quintessentially South African?
Using a range of products from food to beauty to household items, Game devised a questionnaire that would ask locals which products they found most iconically South African, especially when thinking back to their childhood experiences.
The results are in:
Food
Eating together is a cultural tie. In South Africa, we have so many diverse foods thanks to all of our various heritages, so we are aptly spoilt for choice. Here are the food products that are iconic to South Africa.
- Biltong
- Koo Baked Beans
- Ultra Mel Custard
- Amarula Cream Liqueur
- Nik Naks
- Castle Lager Beer
- Lay’s Potato Chips
- Peppermint Crisp
- Fritos
- Flings
The braai table
Braaing in South Africa is more than an experience, but a cultural institution. According to Game’s survey, these items usually accompanying a good ol’ local braai were ranked according to how many respondents deemed them loved accompaniments.
- All Gold tomato sauce – 76% of respondents
- Aromat – 71% of respondents
- Chakalaka – 67%
- Mrs Balls Chutney – 65%
The chosen beverage for Heritage Day
We have many beverages to choose from in Mzansi land. However, Game’s investigation uncovered an unsuspecting, yet non-surprising choice range.
Stoney was identified as our public holiday’s most popular drink according to the Free State and Northern Cape.
Oros and Amarula rolled in tied second place
Respondents from KZN, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, the Free State and the North West preferred Umqombothi proudly.
Personal care brands
Personal care, but make it South African. These are the brands most closely associated with South African heritage.
- Nivea
- Dove
- Ingrams
- Ponds
Interestingly enough, the above products were actually strongly connected to childhood memories.
Healthcare
We know that every aunty in the country has their own version of healthcare essentials. However, the following were the topic Heritage picks.
- Castor Oil
- Imbola
- Amabele
These items were linked to products passed down over generations that to this day, form part of our everyday local lives.
Pure Heritage items
These cooking items were deemed purely South African, and if you know, you really do know.
- Poitjie pots,
- Weber braais
- Cast iron pots
- Meat and coffee grinders
- Kenwood Mixer
Cleaning supplies
Just one small cap is enough! Without these chosen products, Mzansi wouldn’t be as spick and span or have the ads that ring in our heads years after they aired.
- Jik
- Handy Andy
- Omo
- Sunlight Soap
According to Katherine Madley, Game Vice President of Marketing:
“South Africa is a country steeped in heritage and culture, from so many different backgrounds. It is so interesting to see people from across the country come together to agree on their love for these products. Our survey respondents were passionate about their heritage, traditions and culture, and about the role that food and drink products play in celebrating these.”
Picture: Ocado group