The slice is right: the great British sandwich debate

How to slice a sarnie can be a contentious issue in homes across the country and it’s safe to say that the nation is divided. Do you go for the diagonal, slice horizontally straight down the middle, or choose a school packed-lunch style with squares?

This age-old sandwich quandary has been settled by research for British Sandwich Week, taking place between 20 and 26 May.

When it comes to preparing a sandwich at home, Brits overwhelmingly go for the rectangle; #TeamRectangle represents 39 per cent of the nation, #TeamTriangle comes in second place with 30 per cent, and 20 per cent of Brits are #TeamSquare.

But 11 per cent of British sandwich lovers are “other” – either on the fence and will flit between the two, don’t slice their sandwich at all, or opt for another shape.

Age-wise, the over 35s tend to go for rectangles when making their favourite sarnie, with the biggest group being the 35- to 44-year-olds (44 per cent opt for rectangles), and the younger generation (18- to 34-year-olds) prefer a triangular shaped sarnie.

Bringing a new shape into the equation, 33 per cent of 18- to 24-year-olds cut their sandwich into four squares – likely harking back to school lunch box days.

Regionally, 46 per cent of people the North East prefer a rectangular cut sandwich, closely followed by the North West with 43 per cent of residents. Home sandwich-makers of London seem to want a square deal – as 26 per cent of Londoners slice into squares.

“The nation is clearly divided when it comes to the perfect shape for a homemade sandwich, and it goes without saying that there are benefits to both rectangular and triangular sandwiches,” said Jim Winship, director of The British Sandwich & Food to Go Association behind British Sandwich Week.

“The rectangle brings structural integrity, an easy grip, no floppy corners, while triangular wedges are the most popular cut in the commercial sandwich world as they display well in chiller cabinets, and you can see more of the filling.

“British Sandwich Week celebrates the sandwich in all its glory as well as the contribution that the sandwich sector makes to the economy. Sandwiches are a British staple to be enjoyed at any time of the day, whether homemade or shop-bought.”

Although it’s advised to cut your sandwich diagonally, they can be enjoyed in all shapes and sizes and remain a British staple to this day, and thousands are enjoyed in the UK daily. As it is British Sandwich Week, it is the perfect time to go and grab one, or make your own and cut it into whatever shape your heart desires.