While many of the royal family’s protocols are common knowledge in 2024, there are still a few lesser-known family ‘secrets’ you might not be so aware of.
Many rules and regulations relating to the royals have been passed down through generations, with one stipulation in particular food for thought.
According to one royal expert, the royal family are requested to avoid shellfish for risk of poisoning, which could severely impact their myriad commitments.
“When dining, the royal family has to be careful with shellfish due to shellfish poisoning due to their work schedules,” former royal butler and etiquette expert Grant Harrold said.
“Therefore, you will not normally find this on the royal menu.” According to Her Majesty The Queen (formerly HRH The Duchess of Cornwall), one much-loved but pungent vegetable in particular is also banned. Appearing on Masterchef Australia, Camilla said that garlic was also off limits: “I hate to say this but garlic is a no-no,” she said.
This means, as working royals, Kate and William, along with King Charles, Queen Camilla, Princess Anne, Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex, are unable to enjoy shellfish – along with the other working members of Te Firm. However, following their exit in 2020, the rules don’t apply to Meghan and Harry.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex forged a new life in California with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. The BBC also revealed that fois gras is banned at all royal residences (including Balmoral, Sandringham, Windsor Castle, Hillsborough Castle and Buckingham Palace) after a letter from Buckingham Palace to PETA ((People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) confirmed it had been taken off the menu due to its cruelty concerns.
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