Garlic lovers, rejoice! This Halloween, Papa Johns is bringing its fang-tastic flavour to new heights with the launch of Garlic Gum, a supernatural twist on its cult-favourite Special Garlic Dip.
Just in time for spooky season, this limited-edition chewing gum promises a punchy, garlicky sweetness — perfect for keeping vampires (and maybe your mates) at bay. According to new research from Papa Johns, almost half (49%) of Brits believe in the supernatural, while over half (51%) reach for garlic as their go-to defence against bloodthirsty beings.
Britain’s Spookiest Fears Revealed
The study also uncovered the UK’s biggest supernatural fears: demons, spirits, and poltergeists (30%), followed closely by ghosts (29%) and haunted houses (27%). Almost one in two Brits claim to have experienced something paranormal, and many admit to taking matters into their own hands with rituals like prayers (61%), placing crystals under pillows (31%), salting windows and doors (38%), and burning sage (35%).
Expert Explains Britain’s Supernatural Obsession
Dr. Ciarán O’Keeffe, parapsychologist at Buckinghamshire New University, explains our fascination with the unknown:
“Our belief in ghosts and other supernatural beings stems from a human desire to find meaning in chaos. During stressful times, it can be comforting to think there’s something beyond the physical world. Garlic, historically, has been a protective symbol — from Roman soldiers in battle to modern-day folklore. With Papa Johns’ Garlic Gum, you’re carrying the ultimate (and tastiest) vampire repellent.”
The Ultimate Halloween Trick (or Treat)
Packaged in a nostalgic dispenser, the Garlic Gum balances savoury and sweet flavours for those bold enough to try it. Whether you’re tricking your friends or keeping monsters at bay, it’s the perfect spooky season accessory.
A Papa Johns spokesperson added:
“Our Devotion to the Dough knows no (grave) bounds. Garlic Gum is our ghoulish gift to die-hard fans who want that iconic flavour on their lips all day long. It’s wickedly weird and just garlicky enough to make even Dracula think twice.”
Get Your Free Garlic Gum
This Halloween, join the fun — whether you’re handing out sweets (22%), watching horror films (19%), or trick-or-treating (16%). You can grab the limited-edition Garlic Gum for free at papajohnsgarlicgum.com.
And if it disappears faster than a ghost? Don’t worry — Papa Johns’ Garlic Pizza Sticks will do just as good a job at keeping vampires away.
