Colonel Sanders’ Criticism of KFC Gravy: A Look Back

Colonel Harland Sanders is recognized for building Kentucky Fried Chicken into a fast-food powerhouse. However, he reportedly had strong opinions about changes to the menu, particularly the gravy, after selling KFC to a group of investors in 1964. According to The Takeout, Sanders, while remaining the company’s public face, often voiced concerns about modifications to the restaurant’s food.

In a 1978 interview with the Courier-Journal in Louisville, Kentucky, Sanders harshly criticized KFC’s gravy. He said, “My God, that gravy is horrible,” according to court records from legal technology company Justia. He went as far as comparing the gravy to “wallpaper paste,” arguing it lacked the quality of the original recipe he served at KFC.

“They buy tap water for 15 to 20 cents per 1,000 gallons, and then they mix it with flour and starch and end up with pure wallpaper paste,” Sanders stated.

He alleged the gravy contained no nutrition and questioned if it should be sold. His remarks sparked controversy, leading a KFC franchise in Bowling Green, Kentucky, to file a lawsuit against Sanders and the newspaper that published the interview. The lawsuit was later dismissed by the Kentucky Supreme Court, which ruled that Sanders’ comments were directed at KFC as a whole rather than any specific franchise.

Despite Sanders’ critique, the gravy remains popular among fans today. KFC’s gravy retains a loyal following despite his complaints. On Reddit, views varied. Some fans defended the gravy’s taste as a comforting fast-food option, while others agreed with Sanders’ negative assessment. A user claimed the gravy served during Sanders’ era differed from the current recipe, reportedly including ingredients like chicken cracklings, seasoned breading, milk, and cream.

Many Reddit users shared recipes and tips for creating homemade versions of the gravy, highlighting its significance as a cherished dish in their kitchens.

Currently, KFC has not responded to inquiries about the matter. Kelly McGreal is a production assistant with the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.