Paris is facing an unexpected culinary crisis as the 2024 Summer Olympics unfold, with several teams expressing dissatisfaction with the food offerings at the Games.
Athletes from nations such as Great Britain and Germany have voiced significant concerns over the quality of the meals provided, despite France’s global reputation as a culinary powerhouse.
According to Andy Anson, CEO of the British Olympic Association, the UK team has been compelled to fly in their own private chef due to inadequate protein sources and a shortage of raw meat at the Olympic Village. Anson revealed to The Times that athletes have been relying on packed meals prepared at the UK performance lodge as a result.
German athletes have also criticized the food, with members of the men’s hockey team describing it as a “disaster,” as reported by Dpa. Norway’s chef de mission, Tore Ovrebo, acknowledged that while initial quantity issues have been addressed, there are still concerns regarding food quality, according to The Wall Street Journal.
The dissatisfaction has spilled over onto social media, where athletes have taken to platforms like TikTok to share their grievances. Track star Zahria Allers-Liburd’s negative review of her meal garnered attention, with similar sentiments echoed by gymnast Suni Lee and basketball player Promise Amukamara in the comments.
In response to the mounting criticism, Paris 2024 organizers are taking steps to address the issues. Reuters reports that adjustments are being made, including the provision of additional animal protein, with deliveries of “700 kilos of eggs and a ton of meat” being implemented.
The Olympic Village is tasked with preparing 40,000 meals daily for 15,000 athletes, with initial promises of incorporating more local produce and vegetarian options. However, as the situation evolves, Paris 2024 representatives have yet to respond to Business Insider‘s request for further comment.
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