William and Kate banned from eating one delicious food – but Harry and Meghan allowed

The British royal family follows several dietary restrictions, particularly when attending official engagements or on royal tours. These protocols are in place mainly to avoid potential health risks and maintain decorum during public appearances.

One of the primary food items the royals are advised to avoid is shellfish. This precaution is taken to prevent food poisoning, which could interfere with their demanding schedules and responsibilities. Former royal butler Grant Harrold explained that the risk of shellfish poisoning is significant enough that shellfish is typically absent from the royal menu during public duties.

In addition to shellfish, garlic and onions are also generally avoided in royal cuisine, especially during public events. The rationale behind this is to prevent any unpleasant breath odor that could arise during conversations and public interactions. Queen Camilla, in a past appearance on “MasterChef Australia,” confirmed that garlic is a “no-no” for this reason​.

Another banned item is foie gras, a luxury food product made from the liver of a duck or goose that has been fattened. The production method of foie gras has been criticized for its cruelty, and King Charles has banned it from all royal residences as a reflection of his ethical stance on animal rights. This ban aligns with the values of animal rights organizations like PETA.

Moreover, the royals avoid consuming rare meat, such as steak tartare, which contains raw meat. This is another measure to prevent foodborne illnesses that could hinder their official duties. Even the late Queen Elizabeth preferred her steak well done, a preference that aligns with this cautious approach​.

Interestingly, these restrictions do not apply to all members of the royal family. Since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped back from their roles as senior royals and moved to California, they are not bound by these dietary rules. This means they can freely enjoy foods like shellfish and garlic without the same constraints faced by their UK-based relatives​.

These dietary rules, though they may seem unusual, are practical measures to ensure that the royal family remains healthy and presentable during their many public engagements. These precautions also reflect a mix of tradition, etiquette, and modern health considerations that help the royals manage their public roles effectively.