Outrage as India’s Missi Roti Ranked Among “World’s Worst Dishes” by Taste Atlas

India’s traditional and healthy Missi Roti has been included in Taste Atlas’s list of the “World’s Worst Dishes,” causing outrage online. The January 2025 ranking placed Missi Roti at 56th out of 100 poorly rated dishes worldwide, making it the only Indian dish on the list and upsetting many Indians.

Missi Roti, a traditional Punjabi bread made with gram flour, spices, and vegetables, is gluten-free and packed with nutrients. It’s a popular choice in North Indian meals. However, it was ranked alongside unusual dishes like jelly eels, frog eye salad, deviled kidneys, and blood dumplings.

The listing sparked a backlash on social media. One Reddit user accused Taste Atlas of deliberately including an Indian dish, saying, “It seems like they wanted to show not every Indian dish is perfect.” Others suggested dishes like eggplant or bitter gourd could have been chosen instead.

Many also criticized the list for being biased, noting it included several Spanish dishes but ignored much of Nordic cuisine. Some argued that taste is subjective and questioned the ranking of a dish loved by so many people.

Supporters defended Missi Roti, highlighting its high fiber, protein, and nutrient content. They emphasized its role as a healthy and important part of Indian meals and culture.

The controversy has sparked discussions about cultural bias in global food rankings and the underrepresentation of Indian cuisine. Despite the ranking, Missi Roti remains a favorite in Indian households.