More than six in 10 Americans are not ashamed of eating dip with a spoon straight from the container. The survey of 2,000 adults finds that 63 percent have no qualms about eating their favorite spread straight out of the packaging, so it’s no surprise that a similar percentage believe the act should be considered socially acceptable (62%).
People love dip so much, in fact, that 35 percent of those surveyed would replace a typical lunch meal with their favorite spread. According to the survey, adults do this five times per month on average. Aside from devouring it on their own time, 38 percent believe dip is the top thing every party needs to have available. A variety of dips beat out drinks (37%), different foods (33%), good music (28%), desserts (24%), and games (17%) as the top party must-haves.
At events, many say these spreads should always be present: salsa (32%), guacamole (32%), spinach and artichoke (29%), queso (28%), Buffalo chicken (27%), and hummus (25%). When it comes to “proper etiquette” at social gatherings, respondents had some opinions about what hosts and guests should do. Nearly half think people should serve themselves a spoonful of dip on their plate instead of double-dipping (46%).
The research conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Cedar’s Foods further delved into how people generally view dips, with many saying their favorite sides to eat them with are tortilla chips (40%), vegetables (36%), potato chips (38%), and pita bread (32%).
Although a quarter considers dip solely an appetizer (24%), others see it as a snack (22%) or a side dish (18%). Most notably, six in 10 admit they’ve accidentally filled up on appetizers before the main course arrived (61%). Summer appears to be the season of dips, with 38 percent of respondents indicating that’s when they indulge in spreads the most.