How ranch dressing dethroned ketchup as America's top condiment in 2024
How ranch dressing dethroned ketchup as America's top condiment in 2024
How ranch dressing dethroned ketchup as America's top condiment in 2024
Ranch dressing has become America’s favourite condiment, overtaking ketchup in 2024. A survey by Datassential found that 75% of Americans like or love the creamy dressing. Its popularity has even sparked efforts to introduce it across Europe. The story began in 1949 when Steve Henson, a plumbing contractor from Nebraska, created the dressing while working in Alaska. He and his wife later served it at their California dude ranch, Hidden Valley Ranch. Guests enjoyed it so much that Henson started selling packets of his seasoning mix by mail, and demand grew quickly.
Today, ranch dressing is everywhere. Hundreds of companies produce ranch-style dressings and dips, and the flavour appears in many products. Fans are so devoted that Hidden Valley now offers ranch dressing fountains for events like weddings and bat mitzvahs. The TSA even advised international soccer fans to pack ranch in their checked bags when flying home.
The dressing’s fame has reached Europe. Hidden Valley hired six 'Ranchbassadors' to promote it there. One visitor from Sweden, Elsa Thora, posted on X, 'EUROPE WE NEED RANCH ASAP', highlighting the growing demand. Ranch dressing now leads US condiment sales. Its influence extends beyond food, with dedicated fans and creative marketing. The push into Europe suggests its popularity may continue to grow.
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