Members of the royal family have to follow a number of rules and protocols – but one of the most bizarre restrictions revolves around sandwiches.
A former royal chef revealed a long-standing superstition that prevents the likes of Prince William and Princess Kate from eating square-shaped sandwiches for lunch – and it’s been passed down the generations.
Graham Newbould lifted the lid on the odd rule on the TV documentary, Secrets of the Royal Kitchen. He shared that there is a belief that anyone who serves the royals pointy food is trying to do the monarchy harm, leading to some restrictions for their culinary team.
He said: “The royals never have square sandwiches because tradition has it that anyone presenting them with pointed-edged food is trying to overthrow the throne of England.”
The former royal chef spent two years working at Buckingham Palace and six years at Kensington Palace, but never once prepared square sandwiches for the late Queen Elizabeth, according to the Express. Instead the late monarch favoured “jam penny” sandwiches which she would enjoy with afternoon tea.
Square sandwiches are not the only things off the menu in the royal residences. Royal chef John Higgins previously revealed: “At Buckingham Palace , you don’t cook with garlic. I suppose, in case you get the royal burp.” This rule, primarily implemented during royal events and state banquets, was also confirmed by Queen Camilla in 2018. When asked about banned Royal foods during an appearance on MasterChef Australia, Camilla said: “I hate to say this, but garlic. Garlic is a no-no.” Gary Mehigan, one of the judges, then asked: “So garlic is a no-no? Because you’re talking, chatting?” The Queen replied: “Yes, exactly. So you always have to lay off the garlic.”
Another food the royals are prohibited from eating while attending royal events or tours is shellfish – to avoid the risk of food poisoning. Former butler to King Charles, Grant Harrold, disclosed: “When dining, the Royal Family has to be careful with shellfish due to shellfish poisoning, due to their work schedules. It is a very sensible move to abandon having seafood when out and about on public duties. We don’t want a member of the Royal Family having a serious reaction to food poisoning. Especially if [they] are on an overseas tour. Therefore you will not normally find this on the royal menu.”
King Charles, meanwhile, has banned foie gras from all menus served at his Royal residences due to the unethical way it’s made. Foie gras is produced from an abnormally enlarged duck or goose liver due to a disease called hepatic steatosis. This gourmet dish is widely acknowledged as one of the world’s most costly delicacies.
