I have a fear of eating mushrooms. (That’s what this thread is really about, isn’t it?) And all my friends know it. Some of them tease me about it and that’s okay. As long as they don’t try to sneak them into my food a little bit of good natured teasing is part of life. Don’t let the bit drag on too long.
Yes, I’m aware that it is not rational.
Food makes people behave strangely. I think it’s because in so many cultures (and in so many people’s minds), food is not simply fuel for the body. It’s how you connect to other human beings. Rejection of said food is a rejection of that person.
I am a picky eater, especially when it comes to home cooking. But I’ve been raised to always have a bite or a nibble of someone’s home-cooked offerings. I don’t have any dietary restrictions, but there are certain foods I don’t ever eat. When offered, I usually politely say “No thanks, it looks wonderful, but I’m full/that food doesn’t agree with me.”
Sometimes there’s another entreaty to “try it!” and I just say the same thing again. In my West Indian family, there’s usually an insult about you being “weird,” too Americanized, etc. I just take it good naturedly. I get the feeling about being put out when someone doesn’t try or like your food (because I know how good it makes me feel when someone enjoys something I’ve cooked), but I also understand what it’s like to not want to eat new/different/strange foods.
Rude? Only if your intentions are bad. But it’s certainly annoying, and possibly inconsiderate.