Oxford Scientist Exposes Top Hummus Mistake Everyone Makes While Dipping

You’re Eating Hummus Wrong, Says Oxford Food Expert
By Marc Walker | Updated: 11:25 BST, 10 July 2025

Hold the carrot sticks! Oxford University gastrophysics expert Professor Charles Spence claims Brits have been eating hummus incorrectly. According to him, the classic crudité pairing is a messy mistake—crisps or tortilla chips are the ideal dunking tools for the beloved chickpea dip.

Why Crudités Fail

New data reveals 76% of Brits rate hummus as their favorite dip, but Spence argues slim vegetable sticks like carrots or celery are impractical. “The heavier hummus often slides off crudités, risking spills,” he explains. Triangular crisps or curved tortilla chips, he says, provide better texture and scoopability. Their shape also influences taste perception: pointy chips enhance bold flavors, while rounded ones complement sweeter dips.

Caption: Crisps offer better texture and less mess than crudités, says Spence.

Pitta Bread Isn’t Perfect Either

Spence even challenges the classic hummus-pitta combo, noting pitta’s soft texture pairs better with tzatziki. For hummus, crispy, sturdy dippers are key to balancing its richness.

The Dip Debate

A Waitrose survey confirms hummus’s popularity, followed by guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and tzatziki. Chef Will Torrent adds that dip-chip pairing is a science: thicker dips need robust crisps, while lighter dips (like taramasalata) suit thinner options. “It’s about ratio and resistance—no one wants a broken chip mid-scoop,” he says.

Caption: Crudités (left) vs. crisps: Shape affects stability and flavor balance.

Double-Dipping Drama

The survey also found 10% of Brits double-dip habitually, though over half deem it a “food crime.”

The Verdict

Ditch the veggies, grab a crispy chip, and perfect your hummus game. As Spence says, “It’s all about crunch, scoop, and avoiding stained trousers.”

Images: Suggested placement for visuals of hummus with crisps and crudités.
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