New stocks of yeast extract spread Marmite have hit supermarket shelves in Australia after a production of the product was suspended as a result of the 2011 earthquakes in Christchurch.

Supply of the spread, which reappeared on supermarket shelves in Australia again on 1 October 2013, was interrupted when the Sanitarium factory responsible for delivering the South Pacific region’s supply of Marmite was forced to suspend production to allow for major repair works.

“Demand for Marmite is strong and we have been amazed to see the level of passion that the product inspires in the hearts of both Australians and New Zealanders who have been clamouring to get their hands on fresh supplies,” said Todd Saunders, General Manager Sanitarium Australia.

Sanitarium first introduced Australia to Marmite in the early 1900s when it began importing and distributing the English version. The Company said Australia faced its first shortage of the product during World War One, when the British army used the entire supply.

“So when World War Two broke out, Sanitarium secured the recipe and began producing Marmite locally,” said Daniel Derrick, General Manager Marketing Sanitarium Australia.

“While production is now based in New Zealand, Marmite is a staple in many households on both sides of the Tasman and we know Aussies will celebrate the return of this delicious icon,” Mr Derrick said.

Marmite returned to New Zealand supermarkets in March 2013.

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