The inclusion of Anzac biscuits on the menu for the Australian parliamentary reception for King Charles and Queen Camilla has sparked outrage as it breaches guidelines on how the biscuits should be referred to.
Dignitaries were treated to a range of treats at the event in the Great Hall of Parliament House, hosted by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Jodie Haydon on Monday afternoon.
Guests had a choice of savory and sweet canapes, including crab cake, arancini and cheesecake and an ‘Anzac biscuit’.
There are explicit rules regarding the use of the word Anzac, especially in relation to food.
A truly royal affair: Anzac biscuits were called ‘biscuits’ on the menu for King Charles’ parliamentary reception
According to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Anzac biscuits should be explicitly referred to as ‘biscuits’ and never ‘biscuits’.
“The use of the word ‘Anzac’ in the commercial production and sale of Anzac biscuits is generally approved,” the guidelines say.
“However, the biscuits… should be called ‘Anzac biscuits’ or ‘Anzac Slice’ (not ‘Anzac biscuits’).”
The error was quickly reported online.
“Excuse me, what’s an Anzac ‘biscuit’?” wrote a woman on X.
King Charles and Queen Camilla at the parliamentary reception where the cookies were served
The ‘cringe’ move was condemned by many online, with some labeling it an ‘abomination’ and ‘illegal’.
“That’s embarrassing,” one person complained.
Some argued it was ‘absolutely a faux pas’, while others called the mistake ‘wrong’ and ‘sacrilege’ in memory of Australian veterans.
“Insultingly they called it a biscuit when it was an Anzac biscuit,” said another. “(It’s) disrespectful to our Anzacs.”
Parliamentary services and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs were asked for comment.