The polarizing appetizer trend that asked: what if charcuterie boards, but just butter?
Origin
Food influencer Justine Doiron (@justine_snacks) posted a TikTok in September 2022 featuring softened butter spread on a wooden board, topped with flaky salt, herbs, and accompaniments. The concept, inspired by chef Joshua McFadden, went instantly viral. Within days, millions were making butter boards for dinner parties and posting results.
Controversy
The trend sparked fierce debate. Supporters praised the elegant simplicity and customization options (everything bagel seasoning, honey, edible flowers). Critics found it unsanitary (communal butter scraping), wasteful (excess butter), and unnecessary (“it’s just butter on a board”). Food safety experts questioned the hygiene of shared butter boards.
Brief Lifespan
The butter board trend peaked in October 2022 and declined rapidly by November. It became emblematic of TikTok’s ability to generate intense but short-lived food trends. While some hosted butter board parties, most agreed charcuterie boards offered more variety and less risk of food poisoning.
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