Buckingham Palace has not officially confirmed Peta’s claim, but the AFP news agency has read a letter written by a high-ranking official at the British court confirming the claim.
“I can confirm that foie gras is not purchased by the Royal Household and there are no plans for this policy to change,” said the letter, dated November 10 and signed by the head of the royal household, Tony Johnstone-Burt .
Fertilization of the liver
Peta has long campaigned for goose liver to be banned in the UK on ethical grounds, as geese and ducks are force-fed to fatten the animals’ livers.
Already in his previous position as Prince of Wales, King Charles is reported to have ordered this “disgusting product” off the royal dinner tables at his disposal at the time.
“Peta has received confirmation that Her Majesty’s policy now extends to Buckingham Palace and all other royal residences,” the organization wrote in a statement.
Vegan product as a gift
As a gesture of gratitude, the animal rights group says they have sent the monarch a box of “faux gras”, prepared by a vegan chef.
The French name for goose liver – which is also used in the UK – is foie gras.
Foie gras pâté is considered a delicacy and is often eaten at Christmas in the UK. The product is allowed to be imported into the UK, but it cannot be produced in the country.
At the same time, Peta is pushing for the king not to wear ermine fur at his coronation next year. Fake fur is suggested instead. The same goes for the tall and characteristic bearskin caps worn by the king’s bodyguards.