Vegemite is arguably one of the country’s most controversial food with people either loving it or hating it – and it’s about to celebrate a major milestone.

The Aussie icon is celebrating its 100th birthday and Jamie Callister, grandson of Vegemite creator Cyril Callister, has written a book unveiling the spread’s unique history.

Mr Callister told Deborah Knight on Afternoons the dish was an utter failure at first.

“So really it goes back to my grandfather’s perseverance and absolute determination and resillience to see it through,” said Mr Callister.

His book, Vegemite: The true story of the man who invented an Australian icon is out on May 2.

Press PLAY below to hear the unique story of how Vegemite became an Aussie icon

Image by Brendon Thorne