National Greasy Foods Day is the feel good holiday that comes every October 25. It’s state fair season: time to fire up the frying oil, chop the potatoes, and break out the napkins. On October 25, you don’t have to feel guilty about eating greasy foods, because you’re are actually encouraged to!
History of National Greasy Foods Day
No one does greasy foods like the U.S.A. Though these foods shouldn’t be eaten on a day to day basis, it doesn’t hurt to indulge every once in a while.From southern cooking, to soul food, to state fair favorites, greasy foods hold a special place in our hearts and, when eaten excessively, our arteries.These addictive fan favorites are made greasy by the amount of oil, butter, or fat clinging to them even after the cooking process. Though our cheaper and more affordable foods today tend to be coated in greasy goodness, this wasn’t always the case. In the mid 1800s, since meat was an expensive luxury, getting a fatty piece of anything was rare.At this time, people mostly cooked their meats in a stew in order to preserve whatever fats they could. If spit-roasted, they used foods like Yorkshire Puddings to place beneath the roast so no fats would go to waste.Without a fat, it’s difficult for your body to absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K, and a diet without fats can leave the body feeling hungry even after a meal.So greasy foods are actually good for you…in moderation. Switching out butters for healthy oils is a good way to ensure you’re still getting the fat you need to keep your body functioning, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up pizza permanently. Eating greasy foods in moderation doesn’t hurt, but it’s National Greasy Foods Day! You can go back to mindful eating tomorrow.
National Greasy Foods Day timeline
It doesn't have the same ring as KFC, but the Scots deep-fried their chickens, a different way to prepare the bird than their neighbors the English, who only baked or broiled it.
The first official McDonald’s opens in America, changing the way humans eat forever.
Pizza Hut, America's first official pizza chain restaurant, opened its first location in Wichita, Kansas. The building was so small, they could only fit nine letters on the sign, which is why they simply named it "Pizza Hut.
Texas State Fair introduces deep-fried Dr. Pepper, flipping the world of deep frying on its head.
National Greasy Foods Day FAQs
What to do after eating too much greasy food?
Recovering from a food coma? Eat foods high in fiber and whole grains and drink lots of water to flush out your system.
How bad is oily food?
Oily foods every once in a while is okay, but too much of a delicious thing can negatively impact your health. Eat oily foods in moderation, and focus on eating healthy meals consistently.
What foods are not greasy?
Non-greasy foods include fruits and veggies not cooked in heavy butters or oils, as well as proteins cooked in healthy oils, baked, or poached.
National Greasy Foods Day Activities
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Have a fry-a-thon
There are very few things in this world one can’t actually fry, and we dare you to try to find them. Get together with your friends to see what zany creations you can make using a deep pot, cooking oil of your choice, and anything you want to batter up and fry. Have a competition to see who can make the best creation, or at the very least, award a “most creative” prize.
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Hit up your favorite local joint
Burger restaurants and diners aren’t known for the health benefits of their food, but no matter. Head to your favorite local grease bucket and load up on your favorite burgers, fries, chips, chicken fingers, and anything else you choose. You’ll be supporting local businesses, too.
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Make a pizza
For many, pizza is a dish strictly reserved for take out, delivery, or in-restaurant dining. But the reality is it’s really not hard to make a cheesy, bubbling, greasy pizza in your very own oven. It requires a few different ingredients and a little bit of time, but with practice, you can start creating your own recipes to use on any day.
Why We Love National Greasy Foods Day
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It’s easy
One of the perks of making or eating greasy food is that it’s so simple to cook. Fries are basically chopped potatoes, oil, and whatever seasonings you prefer. Bacon can be cooked in the oven, keeping the mess low, while fried foods only require one additional step. So when food is delicious and easy to prepare, why not embrace it?
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It’s a time-honored method
While there is no specific evidence, scientists believe our ancestors must have started cooking with oil from animal fats around the same time they started experimenting with fire, around 250,000 years ago. That’s a lot of time to perfect the ideal fried chicken recipe.
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It’s an excuse to pig out
While fatty foods certainly wouldn’t make your doctor’s list of recommended eats, for a single day, you can indulge guilt-free on whatever greasy food you like best. Just remember it’s for a single day, and don’t make a habit it out of it. Or your doctor will have the right to be frustrated with you.
National Greasy Foods Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | October 25 | Tuesday |
| 2023 | October 25 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | October 25 | Friday |
| 2025 | October 25 | Saturday |
| 2026 | October 25 | Sunday |
