Recently, IKEA decided to spice up it’s food options for its loyal customers, but it looks like things didn’t go to plan. The furniture giant added jerk chicken with rice and peas to its menu, and not a black soul was impressed.
After one customer’s photo of the dish went viral, #Twitter did what they do and their reactions are priceless. After many people pulled the cultural appropriation card, IKEA has issued an apology with Fox News saying:
“IKEA is a Swedish hoe furnishing company with a much-loved food offer. We take inspiration from many countries around the world and have always worked to combine different flavors and ingredients to offer delicious, healthy and affordable dishes.”
The statement continues, and IKEA acknowledges that they may not have hit this one on the nail.
“We’re aware that our new jerk chicken, served with rice and peas has created some conversation and in some cases offense. Our intention was to create a dish for many people to enjoy but we appreciate that we may have gotten it wrong.”
Although some Twitter users expressed confusion about the outrage, black folks came through to make one thing clear: cultural dishes need to be left to the culture!
Jerk chicken with rice and peas is a dish traditionally enjoyed in the Caribbean culture, particularly by those who come from a Jamaican heritage. Additionally, the dish is usually made with pigeon peas or kidney beans, not green peas from a can.
In usual Twitter fashion, users came together to drag IKEA for its new menu item, but some say it’s not that big of a deal. Despite the popular opinion, some folks came to the furniture giant’s defense. Some even said the dish looks great.
Would y’all try the dish, Roomies? Let us know in the comments!
