In an attempt to combat obesity and preserve the culinary heritage of France, French officials have implemented a new rule restricting the use of ketchup in public schools. 

According to the new mandate, which went into effect this week, the tasty tomato-based condiment can’t be served with traditional French food like beef bourguignon and roast veal with blue cheese sauce, though it can accompany certain dishes like French fries (which may only be served once a week). Schools must also provide a variety of healthy options with every meal – including bread, baguettes, and dairy products like yogurt or cheese.

"We have to ensure that children become familiar with French recipes so that they can hand them down to the following generation,” said Christophe Hebert, chairman of the National Association of Directors of Collective Restaurant. "They need to know that in France food means conviviality, sharing and having a good time at the table. We absolutely have to stop children from being able to serve those sorts of sauces to themselves with every meal."

Though banning ketchup may seem strange, many school districts in the U.S. are forbidden from serving tasty, yet unhealthy, selections like chips, soda, and even chocolate milk. Given the number of obese children in the U.S., it's certainly possible that fries, and even ketchup, could be the next to go.

Sources: Fox News, Time, Photo: morgueFile

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