KFC Employee Fired For Licking Mashed Potatoes
Johnson City, TN – Kentucky Fried Chicken’s former slogan was “Finger Lickin’ Good.” It appears an employee of the fast food chicken chain took it literally.
The Johnson City Pressreports an unnamed employee at a local KFC on North Roan Street decided to take a candid, unappetizing pose popularly dubbed “potato lickin’.” The woman is seen caressing a metal tub of whipped potatoes, and appears to be licking them or ready to, tongue extended.
Ultimately, the photo tarnishes the reputation of KFC. KFC is owned by Yum! Brands, based out of Louisville, Kentucky. Once the photo went viral, as it seems some people can’t help but post everything on social media, KFC Corporate mobilized a response.
A KFC spokesperson addressed the issue. Rick Maynard stated in email correspondence regarding the event:
“Nothing is more important to KFC than food safety. As soon as our franchisee became aware of the issue, immediate action was taken. The franchisee’s investigation confirmed the photos were taken after the restaurant was closed and none of the food was served. The employee involved was immediately terminated.”
Many Facebook comments voiced concerns over the validity of KFC’s assurances customers were not served the “mishandled” potatoes. Others noted utter disgust, vowing to never eat at the establishment or any other fast food chain again. Some glibly assessed the ex-employee would likely just move to another fast food restaurant and be less conspicuous with the mischief.
Do you think fast food handlers should be held to a higher standard of expectation? Do you think the mishandling of food is common? What suggestions would you give to curb this type of less than appetizing behavior from food handlers? It is illegal to knowingly put foreign substances, such as laxatives and pills, into someone’s food without them being aware. Do you think there should be a criminal punishment in cases involving food tampering, even implied tampering?
