Margarine Day

What Is Margarine Day?

October 24th is "Margarine Day" in Japan. It was established by the Japan Margarine, Shortening & Lard Industry Association, made up of companies that produce and sell margarine and other processed edible fats, and was certified and registered by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2016. The date honors the birthday of Hippolyte Mège-Mouriès (1817-1880), the Frenchman credited as the father of margarine.

Margarine, Born from a Prize Offered by Napoleon III

Margarine was born out of the search for a butter substitute.

• Established by: The Japan Margarine, Shortening & Lard Industry Association
• Certified: Registered by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2016
• Date origin: The birthday of inventor Hippolyte Mège-Mouriès, October 24, 1817
• How it began: In 1869, Napoleon III called for a substitute for butter, which was in short supply in France, and Mège-Mouriès's idea was chosen
• Purpose: To share the flavor and appeal of margarine with more people

Its Name Comes from "Pearl"

The name margarine is said to come from the Greek word for "pearl." It was given because the fat particles formed during production looked like beautiful, shimmering pearls. The association also runs gift campaigns and other promotions around Margarine Day.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Enjoy a simple slice of toast spread with margarine
• Try baking something with margarine
• Read the package labels to learn the difference between margarine and fat spread
• Share the fun fact that margarine is named after pearls

A Solution to a Butter Shortage Became a Breakfast Staple

Born from a prize contest about 150 years ago, margarine is now a breakfast staple. October 24th is a day to enjoy margarine while remembering the history hidden in this everyday food.