Royal Family News: Fish Knives Are Banned At The Royal Table For This Reason

British royal family news reveals that the monarchy is chock a block with rules, regulations and protocol, some of which seemingly make zero sense. But you know how traditions are, we follow them for the sake of comforting continuity if nothing else.

So, it shouldn’t be shocking to learn that mealtimes at the palace are full of tradition. Queen Elizabeth is very picky about the tableware used—can you guess what her rule is? Actually, she is simply implementing the rule that has been in place since the 15th century, and it concerns a certain utensil. We think you’ll find this fascinating!

Royal Family News – Queen Elizbeth Is A Stickler For Tradition

This inside tidbit was revealed by author Thomas Blaikie. According to him, anytime there is a fish course served to the royals, one utensil is missing.

According to him, “There have been no fish knives in royal palaces since Edward VII denounced them as ‘very common.'” Oh my. How does one filet one’s fish if there are bones present? With one’s fork? Banish the thought!

Royal Family News – The Royals Are Uncommon

Well, until we are invited to lunch at the palace, this scintillating question must go unanswered. While we’re on the topic, fish knives are just one of the many items verboten on the royal table. There are also certain foods that the family refuse while when on official engagements.

Former royal butler Grant Harold told Woman & Home magazine that the royals are reluctant to eat shellfish while out and about. Why? Apparently they wish to avoid food poisoning. According to him, “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 she is on an overseas tour.”

That sounds perfectly reasonable to us. But have you heard the one about Michael Jordan being sickened with a poisoned pizza during a championship run in the 90s? Is any food really safe from evil doers?

Royal Family News – The Queen Does Not Like Fish Knives

Additionally, Prince Charles banned foie gras in royal palaces in 2008 citing concerns for animal welfare and the Queen poo-poos rare meat. It’s also been reported that the royals are also banned from eating items containing raw meat, such as steak tartare, when attending an official engagements in order to avoid food poisoning.

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