Research has revealed that Londoners are the nation's biggest pizza enthusiasts, polishing off an impressive four pizzas per month, double the amount consumed by those in the South East. Among those in the South East, mozzarella is the favourite topping of choice when pizza cravings hit. However, the research has also uncovered some  pizza-eating habits that are major turn-offs, highlighting the nation's biggest pizza ‘icks’.

In fact, four in ten people admitted their meal could be completely ruined if they witnessed someone committing these pizza 'icks' while they were trying to enjoy their own slice. A survey of 2,000 adults identified some of the most common  pizza taboos. Unsurprisingly, pineapple topped the list in the divisive topping debate, with many Brits considering it a significant red flag.

Other toppings that failed to impress included fish, raw vegetables, and eggs, with a third of respondents finding the latter particularly unappealing. Additionally, 32% of Brits agreed that ketchup should never be added to pizza, while sweet additions like chocolate or Nutella were even less popular, with 41% rejecting such combinations outright.

When it comes to crust preferences, opinions were split. A thin crust was the top choice for 31% of respondents, while 20% leaned towards the indulgence of a stuffed crust.

The research was conducted by Crosta Mollica ahead of the launch of their exclusive pop-up pizzeria, Il Leopardo, opening in Shoreditch on Friday, May 16, and Saturday, May 17. For just £2.50, pizza lovers will be able to enjoy authentic Italian pizzas, but there’s a twist – the pop-up strictly enforces traditional Italian pizza rules.

Any bold diners attempting to add pineapple to their pizza may face a surprising response!

A spokesperson for Crosta Mollica said: “There are many ways to eat a pizza – and it seems the nation is divided. But like many Brits, pineapple for us is the ultimate pizza ‘ick’. Just like in Italy, there is no place for the likes of pineapple or ketchup dips at our pop-up pizzeria.

“So if diners fail to follow tradition, they may have to face the consequences of their culinary faux pas. However, our very own ‘toppings’ sommelier will be on hand to help guests create the perfect Italian pizza."

They added: “Our Il Leopardo Pizzeria will celebrate the art and craftsmanship of pizza, and Italy’s passion for flavour combined with style, so if you’re craving a BBQ base or stuffed crust, this restaurant isn’t for you. For us, there is only one true way to eat pizza, and it’s the authentically Italian one.”

The poll unveiled some surprising variations in how Brits savour their pizza. While 72% of respondents prefer to consume pizza the traditional Italian way, using their hands, 32% opt for a more formal approach with a knife and fork.

The East Midlands was pinpointed as the region most likely to use cutlery, in stark contrast to their West Midlands neighbours, who are the least likely to resort to a knife and fork.

When it comes to toppings, disagreements can make sharing a challenge, with 24% of Brits admitting they struggle to agree on shared pizzas due to differing tastes. However, not everyone is keen on sharing, as 27% confessed they don't like to divide their pizza at all.

Certain pizza-eating habits, however, are almost universally disapproved of. A fifth of respondents expressed their horror at the thought of someone cutting a pizza into slices with scissors, while a third wouldn't hesitate to call out someone whose actions gave them the 'ick.