What was the most popular food in 1981?

It's impossible to pinpoint the *single* most popular food in 1981. Food trends are complex and vary by region, culture, and individual preference. However, we can identify some foods that were popular or notable in that year:

General Trends:

* Fast food: Fast food chains like McDonald's, Burger King, and KFC continued their rise in popularity.

* Frozen dinners: The convenience of frozen dinners was a major trend.

* Health food: The health food movement gained traction, with people becoming more aware of healthy eating habits.

* Ethnic cuisines: Interest in international cuisines like Mexican, Chinese, and Italian continued to grow.

Specific Foods:

* Tofu: Tofu became more widely available and popular as a vegetarian protein source.

* Pasta: Pasta dishes continued to be a staple in many households.

* Broccoli: Broccoli was gaining popularity as a healthy vegetable.

* Cereal: Breakfast cereals were popular, with brands like Frosted Flakes, Lucky Charms, and Raisin Bran dominating the market.

* Microwave popcorn: Microwave popcorn became a popular snack food.

Iconic Foods:

* The Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supreme: This iconic menu item was introduced in 1981.

* The McDonald's McRib: The McRib made its first appearance in 1981 and became a cult classic for its limited-time availability.

It's important to remember that these are just a few examples and that food trends are constantly evolving. You can explore specific food publications or archives from 1981 to get a better understanding of the culinary landscape of the time.