A WEEK AGO, I caused a bit of a stir when pointing out that we have reached a saturation point in Ireland’s spice bag market. Available everywhere from petrol stations to burrito shops, the meal is quickly becoming recognised as our national dish, having captured the imagination of tourists on social media.

This opinion landed me on Oliver Callan’s show and Newstalk’s Moncrieff, where I went back to basics to explain what a spice bag was (a strange thing to do, in the year 2026). As I reflected on it, I realised that spice bags are a glorified reinvention of chicken goujons and chips.

Source: Alamy Stock Photo

I began to wonder if the success of the spice bag was down to Ireland’s accommodation of picky eaters. To be clear, this is something I support, as an ally of picky eaters. While I’ve evaded the confines of a limited palate, my siblings’ diets consist largely of nuggets, chips and crisp sandwiches. I’ve seen their stress in restaurants and social settings, where even hamburgers and pizza are a step too far. 

Yet, still they are happy to pick at a spice bag. Once it’s not too spicy.

“Spice bag, no veg please”

Old Ireland tried to beat picky eating out of many kids via enforced hunger, but we know today that there is a complex range of factors that result in food aversions. Often, the discomfort of picky eaters can be caused by sensory processing disorders (SPDs), which impact up to 16% of the population. This can be heightened in people with autism spectrum disorder and ADHD.

Additionally, the eating habits of kids today are hugely influenced by commercial interests. Additive-laden, high sugar and high salt foods........

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