What is Ireland’s greatest export? Is it Guinness? Maybe one of our many poets or artists or musicians? Or is it the spud and its many variations - such as the Tayto.
While Irish culture often gets celebrated on the world stage, sometimes our most beloved pieces of Irishnesses, such as the humble Tayto sandwich, are overlooked.
Well the UK publication The Economist, which focuses on business, technology, culture and current affairs, has published a touching tribute to the Irish crisp by way of a column on Friday, detailing the history and majesty of the beloved snack.
READ MORE: Ireland’s best crisps debate sees controversial winner crowned
"These potato snacks are entangled with their Irish roots," the writer says at the outset of a glorious love letter to Taytos.
In the beautifully written column, which draws on quotes from Seamus Heaney, the writer pens how: “At first glance a bag of Taytos is the antithesis of a seasonal or local food, characteristics that today are prized.
“Encased in their silvery plastic, they survive in all seasons and locales. And yet, for your columnist at least, these potato snacks are entangled with their Irish roots.”
The piece delves into how the “quintessential Irish crisp,” despite being available in many parts of the world, just tastes different when it isn’t enjoyed “on a beach in south-west Ireland”.
The writer added that for her: “Taytos are a once-a-year treat, to be eaten on a beach in south-west Ireland shivering after an icy swim or sweating at the top of a mountain.
“That is not out of necessity. They can be bought in London, her home city, or ordered on the internet, albeit at a mark-up. The ingenious seasoning should taste no different in a London park than in Murphy’s homeland. But somehow it does.”
The piece certainly caused a reaction online, with people flocking to the comments to post their opinion on the article.
One person wrote: "Fresh white bread spread with Irish butter and a sandwich filled with just Taylor crisps. An Irish epicurean delight."
While another added: "Not a story you'd expect to read in The Economist."
One more person commented: "The greatest combo known to man? It’s up there!"
Another wrote: "Nothing better to finish off a week's work than a pint of the black stuff and a pack of Tayto!"
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