Veggie what? Did you say mite? That doesn't even sound appetizing. And that's exactly what I thought when my friends from New Zealand asked, "hey mate, care for a Vegemite sandwich?"

Vegemite is considered a national food for most Australians and New Zealanders and is known to be a staple in many households. Its claim to fame is that it’s filled with vitamin B. However, when you know what it is and how it’s made, you may have reservations like I did.

Vegemite, made by Kraft, is a reddish brown food paste made from yeast extract. Vegemite is made from the leftover yeast extract from local breweries. The best way to describe the taste is salty, a little bitter, with a small amount of malt. It's like eating beef bouillon. However, the consistency is more like peanut butter… smooth and sticky.

The Aussies and Kiwis like to spread it on sandwiches, toast and crackers. They even like to put it in pastries. If you ever come in contact with locals from “down under” and you're offered a Vegemite sandwich, don't even think about what it's going to taste like. Just shut-up and eat it, like I did. It's good for you!

If you’re adventurous and simply can’t wait to be offered your first Vegemite sandwich, you can find Vegemite in markets that offer international food products. If you do choose to go this route, spread it on your toast very thin. The taste has to grow on you. “Enjoy mate!”