There are countless topics that ignite people’s passions-art, education, pop culture, and many more. But one of those that has sparked debate amongst food-lovers is the question of whether pineapple belongs on pizza. For decades, the controversial topping has been the center of an intense debate that divides sweet-savory enthusiasts against traditionalists. This begs the question, is pineapple an innovative twist, or does it change the whole idea of a pizza?
The beginning of this debate started in 1962, when Sam Panopoulos, a Greek immigrant living in Canada, dared to top his pizza with canned pineapple. The combination, now known as “Hawaiian pizza,” quickly triggered critics and fans. People who favor pineapple argue that its sweetness complements the salty taste of ham or bacon. Others believe that fruit has no place on a savory dish like pizza.
“I think if you put pineapple on pizza you’re committing a crime to society and it is wrong. I think it is also disgusting and weird. It doesn’t matter if your pizza is untraditional, but putting fruit on it is weird and wrong. Pizza is meant to be savory, not sweet,” stated Farmington High School senior Tai Echevarria.
This debate goes far beyond just taste, it explores themes of tradition versus creativity. Some argue that the dish should stay true to its Italian roots, where toppings like fresh basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes are fan favorites. On the other hand, some people say that pineapple on pizza is innovative and that it celebrates how food evolves over time.
Adding to how deep this topic is for some people, social media has become a battleground for the pineapple-on-pizza war. A scroll through Tiktok or Instagram will inevitably result in seeing memes, polls, and heated debates on this topic. Even chefs and celebrities have brought their opinion into the mix, deepening the division even more. Paris Hilton, Jimmy Kimmel, Justin Beiber, and many others have commented publicly on the topic. Even world leaders like former Icelandic President Guoni Th. Johannesson joked about banning pineapple pizza.
“I like pineapples, just not on pizza. I do not have the power to make laws which forbid people to put pineapple on their pizza. I am glad that I do not hold such power. Presidents should not have unlimited power. I would not want to hold this position if I could pass laws forbidding that which I don’t like. I would not want to live in such a country. For pizzas, I recommend seafood,” stated Johannesson.
In the end, the pineapple on pizza debate highlights diverse perspectives and personal preferences. Whether you like pineapple on pizza or not, the controversy over a simple pizza topping shows how something as trivial as fruit on bread can gain the attention of the entire world.
