Colonel Sanders’ Strong Opinions on KFC’s Gravy

Colonel Harland Sanders, the mastermind behind the fast-food giant Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), had a notable dislike for a particular menu item despite its popularity. After selling KFC to investors in 1964, Sanders continued as the company’s public face, expressing concerns about changes made to the menu. According to The Takeout, one of his major complaints was about the chain’s gravy.

Sanders’ Critique of KFC’s Gravy

In a candid 1978 interview with the Courier-Journal in Louisville, Kentucky, Sanders harshly criticized the gravy, stating, My God, that gravy is horrible. Court records obtained from the legal technology company Justia reveal that he compared the gravy to wallpaper paste, lamenting the loss of quality from his original KFC recipe. Sanders claimed the company mixed flour and starch with low-cost tap water, resulting in a product lacking any nutritional value.

“There’s no nutrition in it, and they ought not to be allowed to sell it,” Sanders stated, according to reports.

Controversy and Legal Action

Sanders’ outspoken criticism led to controversy, including a lawsuit from a KFC franchise in Bowling Green, Kentucky, which sued Sanders and the publishing newspaper. However, this lawsuit was dismissed, with the Kentucky Supreme Court affirming that Sanders’ remarks targeted KFC in general rather than the specific franchise.

Gravy’s Enduring Popularity

Despite Sanders’ negative views, KFC’s gravy remains a beloved menu item. On Reddit, discussions reflect mixed opinions among fans—some defend the gravy as a comforting fast-food option, while others align with Sanders’ criticism, noting changes from the original recipe. Users shared their insights on homemade versions, offering recipes that include ingredients like chicken cracklings and seasoned breading, aiming to recreate the original taste.

Fox News Digital has reached out to KFC for comment regarding Sanders’ criticisms and the ongoing popularity of their gravy.

Kelly McGreal is a production assistant with the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.