Burger chain Grill’d has come under fire for encouraging Australians to “eat their national emblem” after creating a burger containing kangaroo and emu meat.
Grill’d has created a “Coat of Arms” burger, which features a kangaroo and emu meat patty. It is available in selected restaurants until January 31.
“You can guarantee that you’ll be ‘full’ of Australian pride this Australia Day!” Grill’d says on its website.
The burger has copped some criticism, with the Australian Monarchist League even lodging a complaint with the Prime Minister.
The organisation has also written to Grill’d chief executive Simon Crowe, saying the burger “not only ridicules but denigrates our national identity”.
But Crowe has pledged to stick by his burger, describing the accusations as “almost farcical”.
Here’s a few more, slightly off-kilter, Australia Day-inspired products:
Last year, Arnott’s launched a limited edition flavour called Aussie BBQ Meat Lovers, paying homage to Australians’ love of a backyard barbecue.
But the patriotism didn’t end there – the biscuits were in the shape of Australia.
While the biscuits were a very visual reminder of our great nation, Tasmania was unimpressed at being excluded from the gimmick.
Australian-themed thongs, towels and hats are fairly standard nowadays. You only need to wander into the closest Coles supermarket to find a broad array of Australia Day paraphernalia.
But fashion retailer Supre – aimed primarily at teenage girls – has put its own twist on things, launching a range of items inspired by Australia Day, including a dress and a pair of leggings.
And last year, fellow fashion retailer Cotton On sold a line of basics called Designed in Australia, released just in time for the national holiday.
While not strictly related to Australia Day, this up-market hotel has launched an Australian-inspired high tea, giving the British-influenced concept a distinct Australian flavour.
Available until March 10, the Australiana high tea is served on a tray decorated with eucalyptus leaves and a toy koala to take home.
The menu features lemon myrtle and Murray River salt caramel macaroons, lamington éclairs, lemon bars on Anzac cookie crusts, mini Vegemite sandwiches and mini pavlovas.
This article first appeared on StartupSmart.
