9 food combinations only Boomers understand that horrify

9 Food Combinations Only Boomers Understand That Horrify

As the generations continue to shift, the way people eat has also undergone significant changes. While some food combinations may still be considered weird by today's standards, they were once staples for the Baby Boomer generation. Here are 9 food combinations that only Boomers understand, but may horrify younger generations.

1. Peanut butter and pickle sandwiches

This classic combination might sound strange to some, but for many Baby Boomers, peanut butter and pickles were a perfect match. The tanginess of the pickles complemented the richness of the peanut butter, creating a unique flavor experience.

“I used to eat peanut butter and pickle sandwiches all the time when I was a kid,” says Jane, a 60-year-old Boomer. “It was my favorite snack!”

2. Cereal with mayonnaise

Yes, you read that right – mayonnaise! Some Boomers would add a dollop of mayonnaise to their cereal for an extra creamy kick. It may sound weird, but it was a popular trend back in the day.

3. Spam fritters

Spam, the canned meat that's often associated with World War II, was a staple in many Boomer households. Spam fritters, made by mixing Spam with flour and eggs, were a common snack or side dish.

“Spam fritters were a favorite of mine growing up,” says Tom, a 65-year-old Boomer. “They were easy to make and always a hit at parties.”

4. Jell-O with mayonnaise and canned fruit

This sweet and savory combination might sound like a recipe for disaster, but for some Boomers, it was a beloved dessert. The creamy mayonnaise and sweet Jell-O were paired with canned fruit for a unique flavor experience.

5. Meatloaf with ketchup and mayonnaise

This sweet and savory meatloaf combination was a staple in many Boomer households. The ketchup and mayonnaise added a tangy flavor to the rich meatloaf.

6. TV dinners with Jell-O

TV dinners were a popular convenience food in the 1950s and 60s, and many Boomers would pair them with a side of Jell-O for a complete meal.

7. Canned tuna with mayonnaise and chopped onions

This classic tuna salad combination was a staple in many Boomer households. The mayonnaise and chopped onions added a creamy and crunchy texture to the canned tuna.

8. Fried bologna sandwiches

Fried bologna sandwiches, made by frying sliced bologna in a pan, were a popular snack or light meal for many Boomers.

9. Pancakes with syrup and peanut butter

This sweet and savory combination might sound strange to some, but for many Boomers, pancakes with syrup and peanut butter were a beloved breakfast treat.

These food combinations might seem weird to younger generations, but for many Boomers, they were a staple of their childhood and young adult years. As the generations continue to shift, it's interesting to see how food preferences and combinations change over time.

Author's note: These food combinations might be considered weird by today's standards, but they were once popular and beloved by the Baby Boomer generation. As we continue to age and our tastes change, it's fun to look back at the foods and combinations that were once considered normal.

VegOut Magazine — 2025-11-28