Wrong! These South African brands aren’t actually South African
Do you recognise any of these not so South African brands?
Mzansi loves a lekker brand. From cleaning materials to types of food, there are some brands that become synonymous with the South African experience.
However, it has emerged that some of the labels that we have grown to love aren’t actually originally from the Rainbow Nation.
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Prepare to be wowed by some of our beloved products that aren’t ours. Look at these supposedly ‘South African’ brands with surprising origins:
- Zambuk
Your favourite lip formula originates from England. The Zambuk Company of Leeds founded by Charles Edward Fulford first formulated it in 1902. (The South African)
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- Bovril
Although it may not be for everyone, many South Africans are die-hard fans of this additive on toast. In the 1880s in Scotland, John Lawson Johnston tinkered with a concoction he termed "fluid beef extract."
- Carling Black Label
Yup, that’s right! Zamalek is not from SA. Also known as, "the beer of the South African working man”, this beverage comes from Ontario. It was invented in the 1840s by Canadian Thomas Carling, but it wasn't until the 1960s that South African Breweries acquired the rights to brew Black Label locally.
- Sunlight soap
This household staple was one of Unilever’s first products and first sold in the UK. William Hesketh Lever, the founder of Unilever, introduced Sunlight soap in the UK in 1885 during a period of widespread poverty and poor health. In 1891, it made its way to South Africa.
- Aromat
Brace yourself for another twist! The iconic red and yellow Aromat shaker that brightens up our spice cupboard is not from here. Despite its proudly South African vibe, this spice sensation isn't local at all. It's owned by the German food giant Knorr and hails from Switzerland.
- Marie Biscuits
Marie biscuits, those delightful treats we all love, were born in a London bakery called Peek Freans. They were crafted for the marriage of the Russian grand duchess Maria Alexandrovna to Britain’s prince Alfred in 1874.
So, is your mind blown? We were taken aback when we heard about this.
Do you have any fun facts to share? Get in touch with us [email protected]
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