The “Today” show reports school cafeterias across France are banning ketchup in an effort to fight obesity. Now, wait a minute. It’s fine if the French battle over euro zone issues with Germany, struggle to catch a glimpse of the new First Baby, and fight (and lose to) New Zealand for the Rugby World Cup. But start a war on ketchup? Au contraire, mes frères.

Famous French chef Alain Ducasse tells the news show that ketchup is too high in sugar, fat, and sodium.

“My advice for young American boys and girls—if you eat the right products now, that’s better [for] your entire life,” he says. Well, there’s a shocker.

The Los Angeles Times reports the French federal ketchup ban is in effect at all government school cafeterias and buildings, save those where 80 meals or fewer are served daily. (So ketchup is fine when your workplace is small?) And, the newspaper adds, in addition to bidding au revoir to the tomato-based condiment, fatty foods are to be limited; more fruit, veggies, and dairy are to be offered; and students can have all the bread and water they want. Is this school, or is this prison?

Thank goodness we, unlike the French, still have the right to say, “Oui, oui, we will squeeze ketchup on that. Double ketchup, in fact.” So, pass the freedom fries. As Ronald Reagan knew, it really is a vegetable in our eyes, and, at just 15 calories a tablespoon? It’s hardly the reason we’re fat.

Try this homemade Chunky Ketchup recipe, for fresh and spicy tomato flavor.

Categories: Food News | Tags: Sauces, Tomato Sauce
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