National Chip Week: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Chip Week (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Chip Week is celebrated on February 20th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Chip Week, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as cool facts you might want to know about National Chip Week.

📅 What day is National Chip Week 2024?

In 2024, National Chip Week is on Monday, February 20th. It is the 3rd Monday in February; in 2024, it is Tuesday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all fascinating details and facts about February 20, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National Chip Week takes place in the last week of February, specifically from February 20 to February 26 this year. During this time, we will be celebrating by exploring and testing various homemade chip recipes. Interestingly, Belgians have been frying potatoes since the 17th century, predating the introduction of fish and chips in the United Kingdom. The Potato Council, a trade association focused on the growth of the potato industry in the UK, established National Chip Week as part of their annual awareness campaign. The goal is to encourage more people to enjoy chips while dispelling common misconceptions about them.

📜 National Chip Week History

Potatoes were believed to have been brought to England from the New World in the 1800s, with Sir Walter Raleigh being credited for introducing them to the country. The concept of British chips was first mentioned in William Kitchiner’s 1817 book, “The Cook’s Oracle,” which was widely popular in the UK and the US. However, it was Charles Dickens’ novel “A Tale Of Two Cities” that explicitly mentioned chips. The first fish and chip shop was established in Mossley, Oldham, Lancashire, in the 1860s, while Joseph Malin, a Jewish immigrant, opened another shop during the same period. Over time, fish and chips gained immense popularity in the UK and became a favorite meal, especially during the Second World War when it was a non-rationed option for both troops and the general population. Today, fish and chips remain one of the top ten most popular British foods.

✅ National Chip Week Facts

🔖 The British love their fish and chips
Every year, people in the UK devour more than 382 million portions of fish and chips and shell out around 1.2 billion pounds for this classic dish.

🔖 They were a code in the war
In the D-Day landings, British soldiers would shout “fish” and expect their comrades to respond with “chips.”

🔖 Fish and chips shops are dwindling
The United Kingdom has experienced a significant decline in the number of fish and chip shops over the past 90 years, with approximately 10,500 shops remaining compared to the 35,000 that existed in the past.

👍 Why Is National Chip Week Important

Chips are derived from potatoes, which have been shown in studies to provide a variety of health advantages. Eating potato chips can help enhance bone health, decrease blood pressure, support heart health, and boost immunity to the common cold.

It’s pretty inexpensive for a dinner that provides us with so much flavor, memories, and health advantages. A dish of fish and chips costs between £5 and £12, depending on the city. When compared to pizza (£7–£15) and Chicken Tikka Masala (£6–£12), this is the greatest deal.

During the Second World War, Prime Minister Winston Churchill referred to fish and chips as “the good companions.” It was one of the few non-rationed meals and one of the most popular during that time period. Fish and chips have become synonymous with Britain over the years and are commonly consumed throughout holiday seasons and special events.

🙂 How To Observe National Chip Week

⚡ Create a new recipe
Do you specialize in making traditional fish and chips? If so, why not explore something different during National Chip Week? Instead of using the typical cod, pollock, and haddock, try using white fish that is not commonly found in the UK. You can also experiment with various types of beer and unique flavorings to create new and exciting variations. In fact, you could even challenge yourself further by recreating the famous fish and chips dish using completely foreign ingredients.

⚡ Cook fish and chips
During National Chip Week, it is highly recommended to celebrate by making the classic British dish at home. Although fish and chips can be found all over the UK, why not give it a go in your own kitchen? To make this traditional dish, you’ll need a type of thick white fish such as cod, haddock, or pollock, along with flour, baking powder, cold dark beer, sparkling cold water, potatoes, vegetable oil or lard for frying, and black pepper and sea salt to season.

⚡ Go out for fish and chips
In the United Kingdom, there are approximately 10,500 places where you can enjoy fish and chips. During National Chip Week, make an effort to visit the ones located near you. We assure you that you will have a fantastic experience, especially if you go with someone else. To ensure excellent service, explore all the chip shops in your vicinity and determine which one offers the finest fish and chips.

📅 When is National Chip Week?

View all 🔗 February holidays, including 🔗 Food & Beverage and other 🔗 Cooking holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about National Chip Week. So be sure to check back soon.