Can you drink Marmite as a drink?

December 11, 2025 •

5 min read

Marmite, a yeast extract spread known for its strong flavor, is most commonly used on toast, but many people are curious about other applications. As a matter of fact, yes, you can drink Marmite as a drink, typically by diluting it with hot water to create a savory broth-like beverage. This practice is common and provides a unique, warming alternative to traditional hot drinks.

Quick Summary

Yes, Marmite can be consumed as a drink by diluting a small amount of the concentrated yeast extract in hot water to create a savory beverage. This hot drink provides a boost of B vitamins but is high in sodium and has a strong, distinctive flavor. Serving suggestions include a simple broth or mixed into more complex recipes like a Bloody Mary.

Key Points

Yes, you can drink Marmite: It is safe and common practice to dilute a small amount of Marmite with hot water to create a savory, broth-like beverage.
Rich in B vitamins: A Marmite drink is an excellent source of B vitamins, including B12 and folate, which support energy and brain function.
High in sodium: Due to its high salt content, it must be consumed in moderation, especially by individuals with high blood pressure.
Dilution is key: The thick, concentrated paste should never be consumed directly as a drink; proper dilution is essential for both flavor and safety.
Versatile beverage: The savory drink can be a simple hot broth or used as a base for more complex recipes, such as a Bloody Mary or a beer cocktail.
Acquired taste: The intense, salty, and umami flavor is polarizing, and the experience of drinking it is not for everyone.
Not for everyone: Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities should avoid Marmite due to its gluten content.

Is drinking Marmite safe and effective?

Drinking Marmite in its concentrated form is not recommended due to its intense saltiness and thick consistency. However, diluting a small quantity with hot water creates a savory, broth-like drink that is perfectly safe and enjoyed by many. The safety and effectiveness largely depend on moderation, primarily due to the high sodium content. When prepared correctly, a Marmite drink is rich in B vitamins, including B1, B2, B3, B12, and folate, and can contribute positively to your nutrient intake.

The nutritional upside: A rich source of B vitamins

One of the most significant benefits of consuming Marmite, whether as a spread or a drink, is its nutritional profile. Marmite is fortified with several essential B vitamins, which are crucial for energy production, brain function, and nerve health. This makes a warm Marmite drink a potentially beneficial option for a quick pick-me-up. For example, Vitamin B12, often lacking in vegan diets, is abundant in Marmite and supports healthy red blood cell production. Research has even suggested that the B vitamins in Marmite may help increase the neurotransmitter GABA, which can have a calming effect and reduce anxiety.

The sodium downside: A matter of moderation

The main health risk associated with Marmite is its exceptionally high sodium content. A single 8g serving (just over a teaspoon) contains a significant portion of an adult's recommended daily salt intake. Consuming a lot of Marmite can lead to excessive sodium intake, which is a concern for individuals with high blood pressure, heart conditions, or kidney issues. For this reason, it is vital to practice moderation and not overdo it when preparing a Marmite drink. Diluting it properly is key to enjoying the flavor without the salt overload.

How to prepare a Marmite drink

Making a Marmite beverage is a straightforward process, but the ratio of Marmite to water is critical for achieving a pleasant taste. Here is a simple step-by-step guide:

Gather your ingredients: You will need a jar of Marmite, hot water, and a mug or cup.
Start with a small amount: Spoon about a half to a full teaspoon of Marmite into the bottom of your mug. Newcomers should start with less to gauge their preference.
Add hot water: Boil some water and pour it into the mug, filling it almost to the top.
Stir until dissolved: Use a spoon to stir the mixture vigorously until the Marmite paste is completely dissolved and the liquid turns a light, uniform brown color.
Serve immediately: Enjoy your warm, savory Marmite drink while it's still hot.

Beyond the broth: Marmite drink variations

While a basic Marmite and hot water drink is the classic approach, the spread's savory, umami-rich flavor can be incorporated into other beverages for a more complex profile. Here are a few ideas:

The Savory Bloody Mary: Dissolve Marmite in hot water and add it to your tomato juice base for a richer, more complex Bloody Mary cocktail.
Marmite and Beer: Stir a very small amount of Marmite into a dark beer for an extra umami boost, creating an interesting beer cocktail.
The Herbal Marmite Broth: For a more layered flavor, steep a teabag of your favorite herbal or vegetable tea with the Marmite before adding hot water. A splash of lemon juice can also add brightness.

Comparison: Marmite drink vs. other savory beverages

To understand the appeal of a Marmite drink, it's helpful to compare it to other common savory or bouillon-style hot beverages.


Feature	Marmite Drink	Bouillon (e.g., Bovril)	Bone Broth	Miso Soup
Base	Yeast extract, hot water	Meat/vegetable concentrate, hot water	Simmered animal bones, herbs, and vegetables	Fermented soybean paste, dashi (fish stock)
Flavor Profile	Strong, salty, umami, polarizing	Salty, meaty (or vegetable), savory	Rich, deep, savory, umami	Salty, umami, slightly sweet, fermented
Preparation	Instant; stir paste into hot water	Instant; stir cube/paste into hot water	Can be homemade or store-bought liquid	Instant paste or from scratch
Key Nutrients	B vitamins (B1, B12, folate, niacin)	Can contain some vitamins and minerals depending on brand	Protein, collagen, minerals	Probiotics, various minerals
Key Concern	Very high sodium content	High sodium content	Higher in protein, but can be high in sodium	High sodium content

Conclusion: Savor it or dilute it with caution

In conclusion, the question, "Can you drink Marmite as a drink?" has a clear answer: yes, but with a significant caveat. While it's unsafe and unappetizing to drink it straight from the jar, diluting it with hot water is a long-standing practice. This method creates a warm, savory broth that delivers a potent dose of B vitamins, which can support energy levels and nervous system health. However, because of its extremely high sodium concentration, it should always be consumed in moderation, especially by those monitoring their salt intake. For those who can appreciate its unique, umami-packed flavor, a warm Marmite drink is an intriguing and surprisingly comforting beverage alternative.

Remember to start with a minimal amount, dilute generously, and explore different variations to find your personal preference. Whether you're a lover or a hater, trying Marmite as a drink is a true testament to its polarizing, yet enduring, popularity.

Health considerations for drinking Marmite

While a Marmite drink can be a source of valuable nutrients, it's not suitable for everyone. Individuals with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should be aware that Marmite contains gluten, as its yeast extract is derived from barley, wheat, oats, and rye. The exceptionally high sodium level also makes it a poor choice for those with hypertension or other salt-sensitive conditions. As with any dietary change, consulting a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian is a good practice, especially if you have pre-existing health issues.

The cultural history of Marmite as a drink

The practice of drinking Marmite is not a new fad but a tradition rooted in history. Marmite was first developed in the early 20th century and was marketed as a nutritional supplement, especially during the major wars. Its rich B vitamin content made it a valuable fortification, and a warm, diluted version provided a comforting and nutrient-dense beverage during times of food scarcity. This tradition has persisted, with many still enjoying it as a reviving hot drink, much like Bovril or Oxo. The "love it or hate it" slogan speaks to its strong taste, but for those who love it, a warm Marmite beverage is a deeply satisfying experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

To make a Marmite drink, dissolve a small amount (about a half to one teaspoon) of the yeast extract paste in a mug of hot, boiled water and stir until fully combined. Adjust the amount of Marmite to suit your personal taste.

Drinking a diluted Marmite beverage provides a significant amount of B vitamins, including B12, thiamin, and folate, which are beneficial for nerve health and energy. However, its high sodium content means it should be consumed in moderation.

While a small, diluted portion of Marmite daily is not harmful for most people, it should be consumed with caution. Due to its high sodium content, excessive daily intake is not recommended, especially for those with health concerns like high blood pressure.

A Marmite drink has a strong, salty, and savory (umami) flavor. The taste is often described as potent and polarizing, which is why it’s best diluted to your preference.

Some traditions suggest that a hot Marmite drink can help with hangovers by replenishing depleted B vitamins. However, scientific evidence is limited, and its effectiveness as a cure is largely anecdotal.

Marmite can be given to children in small amounts, but due to its high sodium content, it is crucial to use it very sparingly. For infants and toddlers, it's generally best to avoid it or consult with a pediatrician.

Marmite is a yeast extract spread, while Bovril is a beef extract (or vegetable for the vegetarian version). A Marmite drink is made from a yeast base, whereas a Bovril drink comes from a beef or vegetable concentrate. Both are savory, but their flavor profiles differ significantly.