A new survey has revealed that Generation Z is dramatically reshaping the traditional British Christmas dinner, with many young people favouring a host of unconventional sauces over classic gravy.
The Great Gravy Rebellion
The research, which polled 2,000 adults across the UK who celebrate Christmas, found that Gen Z is actively breaking with long-held festive customs. Instead of the customary gravy, their plates are being adorned with an array of alternative condiments. Popular choices include curry sauce (39%), hot sauces like sriracha (36%), salad cream (25%), alongside barbecue and sweet chilli sauce (both 21%).
Perhaps more startling for traditionalists are the figures for classic sauces: over half (51%) of Gen Z have used mayonnaise on their Christmas dinner, and an even greater 56% have smothered their festive meal in ketchup. The study indicates that 43% of young Brits explicitly prefer a non-traditional condiment like ketchup to gravy, valuing personal taste over tradition.
A Nation Passionate About Sauce
For this demographic, sauce is non-negotiable. The survey found that 51% believe their Christmas dinner would be ruined without their favourite sauce, and nearly six in ten (58%) claim they would struggle to go without their preferred condiment. This passion extends far beyond the dining table, leading to real-world sauce drama.
It was revealed that 44% of Gen Z have argued with friends or family over sauce choices. Furthermore, 43% have refused a meal because their favourite sauce wasn't available, 32% have brought their own sauce to a dinner, and nearly a quarter (24%) admit to eating a condiment straight from the bottle.
Subway Celebrates with Festive Baubles
The study was commissioned by Subway to mark the launch of its own limited-edition Christmas baubles. From 10am on 2nd December 2025, the sandwich chain is giving away free baubles shaped like sauce bottles, inspired by its popular Chipotle Southwest, Sweet Onion, and Honey Mustard sauces.
A Subway spokesperson commented: "There's no denying that Brits take their sauces seriously, and we love seeing what unique flavour combinations our customers come up with. The sauce is what makes the Sub, and to celebrate this, we've created our own baubles inspired by some fan favourites." The ornaments are made in the UK from 100% recycled plastic.
The findings underscore a significant cultural shift, with Gen Z confidently personalising the most traditional meal of the year. The classic gravy boat, it seems, is making room for the mayo jar and the sriracha bottle on the modern festive table.
