The UK is planning a number of events to mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings this year, the largest naval, air and land operation in history that signalled the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany in World War II.
One of the events will see public sector caterers encouraged to serve fish, chips and mushy peas on June 6th, the day that launched D-Day in 1944. It means that this year National Fish & Chip Day, one of the biggest food awareness days in the calendar since it began in 2015, is being moved from its traditional Friday slot to a Thursday.
National Fish and Chip Day was started by the National Edible Oil Distributors’ Association, which points out: “The promotion has always brought the nation together to celebrate this iconic dish, and because of the strong links fish and chips had with WW2, we knew we wanted to be a part of this commemoration. Fish and chips are often considered the British national dish and this humble meal was a vital ingredient of the war effort in both the First and Second World Wars.
“The British Government safeguarded the supply of fish and potatoes during both world wars to ensure the dish remained a boost to morale and these foods were among the few not to be subject to rationing during both world wars.”
His Majesty’s Prison Service has committed to supporting the move, with catering teams preparing to serve prisoners what is often considered Britain’s national dish on June 6th. Their efforts will be matched by fish and chip shops throughout the country, as the National Federation of Fish Friers encourages all outlets to get involved.
It is hoping to serve at least 156,000 portions on the day, which reflects the number of allied service personnel involved in the D-Day operation.