As the world gathers in Paris for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, athletes are facing an unexpected challenge that has nothing to do with their performance on the field: a food shortage at the Olympics 2024. Reports from the French newspaper L’Équipe and other sources have highlighted a growing concern among competitors about the insufficient food supply, particularly the rationing of eggs at breakfast and a scarcity of grilled meats.
The Challenge Of Food At The Olympics 2024
All the athletes are complaining that there is very little real food at the Olympics: two-thirds of the dishes are vegan soyslob, and the athletes demand meat and eggs. pic.twitter.com/8hIXoGzR77
— BowTiedMara (@BowTiedMara) July 26, 2024
It is an enormous undertaking to feed 15,000 international athletes from 208 territories and nations. Their support teams, officials, and volunteers also need to be provided for. During the Games, more than 13 million meals are set to be served. It is certainly comparable to the food provided at ten football World Cups. As per the BBC reports, athletes have access to six main dining areas offering a variety of cuisines, including French, Asian, Afro-Caribbean, and global dishes, with 500 different recipes to cater to diverse tastes.
The official catering partner, Sodexo Live!, has acknowledged the “very high demand” for certain products. They have also assured that volumes would be increased to meet the athletes’ needs. According to the BBC reports, Carrefour confirmed that they have been asked to revise their quantities upwards to satisfy this increased demand. They are the group responsible for supplying fresh products. Despite meticulous planning, the sheer volume and the specific dietary requirements of high-performance athletes have led to a mismatch between supply and demand.
The Impact On Athletes
Paris 2024 Olympic Village Food Review: Breakfast 🍳@Paris2024 @Olympics pic.twitter.com/nMNYV2pPBP
— Gerek Meinhardt (@GerekMeinhardt) July 20, 2024
Athletes have voiced their dissatisfaction, with complaints about small portions and a lack of high-protein foods essential for their performance. Andy Anson, the British Olympic Association’s chief executive, shared the issues of raw meat being served and the inadequacy of the food provided, with The Times.
Organisers are working tirelessly to address the shortages. According to NDTV reports, around 40,000 meals are prepared daily in the Athletes’ Village. It has a dining facility that can seat up to 3,300 people at a time. Efforts are underway to increase food supplies to meet the high demand.
The Paris Olympics have emphasised a strict quality charter for the food served. Developed over four years, it aims to halve the carbon footprint of meals compared to the London 2012 Olympics. This initiative includes sourcing all meat, milk, and eggs from France, and ensuring a third of the food is plant-based.
The culinary crisis in the Paris Olympic Village has posed significant challenges. However, efforts are being made to address the shortages and ensure athletes receive the nutrition they need.
Cover Image Courtesy: BowTiedMara/X
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.