I was shocked at this news from my favorite fast food place, and couldn’t believe it was real. KFC Canada is going viral after customers discovered that the popular fried chicken chain has been serving halal meat for the past two months.
Social Media Uproar: #BoycottKFC Trends
#BoycottKFC is trending on social media, with users sharing screenshots of a statement by KFC Canada dated May 8 detailing plans to introduce inclusive menu options. As part of the initiative, the American fast food chain collaborated with its KFC Canada Muslim team to include halal menu options starting May 15 across all KFC Canada stores in Ontario, except Thunder Bay and Ottawa.
Changes in Menu and Supplier Partnerships
Restaurant staff have been trained to accommodate this change, and KFC Canada has partnered with halal product suppliers like Maple Lodge Farms and Zabiha Halal. Additionally, the restaurant has discontinued pork products at all locations except those co-branded with Taco Bell.
Mixed Reactions from the Public
While some customers appreciate the move, noting it allows “more people to dine comfortably at KFC,” others criticize it as “totally unacceptable.” Many are also questioning why Thunder Bay and Ottawa have been excluded. “Odd they leave out Ottawa considering its large Muslim population,” one individual commented.
Amidst the controversy, some humorously point out, “Imagine #BoycottKFC because you don’t know what halal means.”
Understanding Halal Meat
Halal meat refers to meat that is permissible according to Islamic dietary laws. It involves ethical treatment of animals and thorough removal of blood during slaughter, ensuring tender and wholesome meat, as defined by the Halal Meat Association, Canada.
Switching Allegiances
Many customers are expressing their intent to switch to other fast food chains like Popeyes or Mary Brown’s. “So just FYI to everyone that is upset by this – Popeyes in Canada has always been Halal,” an X user reacted. Another added, “The best thing on Twitter today is Canadian right-wingers reacting to the news of KFC Canada going halal by saying they’re switching to Mary Brown’s, not knowing Mary Browns has been certified halal in most big-city locations for years.”
Inclusivity Debate
There is also debate over whether eliminating pork aligns with inclusivity. “It says it’s rolling this out to be more diverse and inclusive. Literally excluding pork from the menu. That seems less inclusive,” one X user noted. Another user shared, “Won’t have any effect on me, but this certainly opens their products up to both Muslims and Jews. Btw, this won’t change the price or taste for non-Muslims. We wouldn’t even know if they didn’t tell you.”
