Overview:
Today we look again to the world for snacks that either go against the grain, define a food culture, or could eventually make their way to international shelves. This global taste tour explores snacks originating from Oman, Peru, Jordan, Ghana, and Finland — each reflecting unique traditions and flavors that tell the story of where they come from.
Chips Oman (Oman)
Chips Oman was conceived during the 1989 split of Al Shaihani Group’s snack business into two divisions: Al Shaihani, which focused on corn grit-based snacks, and Al Jufair Food Industries, which took on potato-based snacks. The result became a sensation across the Gulf region. It was particularly popular in Dubai, where it evolved into a nostalgic snack for generations.
Known for its distinct chili and paprika flavor, balanced with onion and garlic, Chips Oman’s savory kick and satisfying crunch make it versatile. It is used in wraps, sandwiches, and even desserts. Its smoky, spicy profile fills a flavor gap rarely found in international chip markets. For expats, it’s nostalgia in a bag. For new audiences, it’s an introduction to a uniquely Omani flavor that could one day rival mainstream favorites like barbecue or sour cream & onion.
Picarones (Peru)
Originating in Peru, picarones are fried donuts made from sweet potatoes, squash, wheat flour, sugar, cinnamon, and anise. They are often served with chancaca sauce, a syrup of unrefined sugarcane flavored with orange peel, cinnamon, and clove. The dish was born during Peru’s time under the Spanish Empire in the 19th century. Afro-Peruvian cooks adapted the Spanish buñuelo using native ingredients.
Over time, picarones became a staple street food and a symbol of Afro-Peruvian culinary heritage. They’re especially tied to the Feast of the Señor de los Milagros, one of Lima’s most celebrated religious events, where they’re served during the processions. With today’s global appetite for sweet potato-based snacks and street food culture, fresh or packaged picarones could easily find an international following.
Jordina Date Bars (Jordan)
From Jordan, Jordina Date Bars represent both a modern treat and a continuation of one of the Middle East’s oldest food traditions — the date. Rich in nutrients, dates are essential to Ramadan. They help break fasts with their natural sugars and minerals. The Jordina brand was launched in 1999 by the Saudi Jordanian Industrial Development Company (SJIDC), quickly finding success as demand grew.
While date bars are enjoyed across many countries, Jordina remains a distinctly Jordanian product. It is sold primarily in Jordan and Lebanon with some global availability through exports. With increasing global interest in natural, energy-rich snacks, Jordina’s combination of heritage and health could make it a future favorite on international shelves.
Burger Peanuts (Ghana)
Despite the name, Burger Peanuts from Ghana are not burger-flavored — but they are just as satisfying. These are peanuts coated in a crunchy, seasoned shell. They offer variations that range from sweet and coconutty to savory and spicy. Their origins are unclear, but they’ve become a street market staple throughout Ghana, especially in outdoor bazaars.
The term “burger” may stem from the snack’s rounded, bun-like appearance. Local brands such as Nkatie dominate production, though many are made by independent vendors. Their unique combination of texture, flavor, and aroma makes them stand out among global peanut snacks. With the right introduction, Burger Peanuts could find eager fans far beyond West Africa.
Salted Licorice (Finland)
In Finland, salted licorice — or salmiakki — started not as candy, but as medicine. It originated as an expectorant used to clear mucus, with its key ingredient ammonium chloride giving it both its health benefits and distinctive, sharp flavor. Pharmacists eventually combined the substance with licorice to make it more palatable, accidentally creating a national favorite.
The Finnish company Fazer was among the first to commercialize salmiakki in the 1930s. Over time, it became beloved across Finland, Sweden, and the Netherlands, though it remains a polarizing taste elsewhere. For Finns, however, salmiakki is more than candy — it’s cultural identity in confection form. Its bold, medicinal tang may never win everyone over, but its uniqueness ensures that it will always have loyal devotees.
Explore More at Presence News:
📰 The Origin of Five Global Snacks, Part 1
Editor’s Note:
This article reflects the research and perspective of the author and contributor William Campbell. Presence News editorial staff has not altered or revised the original submission.
