Gentleman's Relish, the iconic British anchovy paste also known as Patum Peperium, has been discontinued after 177 years. The manufacturer, AB Foods, announced that production was 'no longer commercially viable' due to dwindling sales.
Created in 1828 by English grocer John Osborn while living in Paris, the paste was first marketed in 1849 at the Paris Food Show. It consists of around 60 per cent anchovy, along with rusk, butter, and a secret blend of herbs and spices. Traditionally enjoyed on hot buttered toast, it has outlasted six monarchs and two world wars.
AB Foods, which acquired the manufacturing rights two decades ago, stated: 'While this Victorian relish has a niche and loyal following, it sadly does not have wider commercial appeal and, despite our best efforts, retailer distribution has dwindled. With Gentleman's Relish no longer commercially viable and unable to secure a buyer for the brand, we regrettably stopped production earlier this year.'
The paste was a favourite of James Bond author Ian Fleming, who would order it at Scott's restaurant in London on toast with scrambled egg, a dish known as Scotch woodcock.
