Blue Cheese vs. Durian: Which Is the Foul-Smelling Winner?

The debate over the foulest-smelling food has been reignited with the popularization of two distinct guilty pleasures: blue cheese and durian. While both are known for their potent aromas, they are foul in different ways. This article explores the unique characteristics of blue cheese and durian, as well as the opinions of food enthusiasts who compare these extreme odors.

What is Blue Cheese?

Blue cheese is a tangy and pungent cheese known for its strong, mold-infused flavor and smell. The distinctive odor can be described as pungent, musty, and sometimes reminiscent of old socks or feet. It has gained a reputation for being one of the most potent-smelling foods in the world, making it a polarizing delicacy.

What is Durian?

Durian is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia and known for its distinctive and often overwhelming odor. The fruit's smell is so potent that it has been banned in various public places and airports in some countries due to its strong aroma. Descriptions of the durian smell range from a mix of sweet and stinky to a combination of skunk and gym socks.

The Controversy: Which is the Fouler Smelling Food?

Many food enthusiasts are passionate about their opinions regarding which of these foods is the foulest-smelling. However, the preference for such aromas is highly subjective. For some, the intense and overwhelming smell of durian is the more offensive of the two, while others might argue that blue cheese's odor is just as powerful and equally unpleasant.

Personal Opinions

To settle the argument, several individuals have shared their experiences and preferences. One person mentioned enjoying durian, especially when it's served frozen or as a natural ice cream, while another individual has a surtout for durian and even mentions that they cannot enter a stinky tofu restaurant due to its smell. Some other individuals assert that neither of these foods stands a chance against fermented whale blubber, which is described as stomach-churning and an even more offensive odor.

Conclusion

The debate over the foulest-smelling food has no clear winner. Both blue cheese and durian have unique and potent aromas that can be highly offensive to some but equally compelling to others. The decision depends on individual preferences and tolerances.