French fries are a global favorite, but there’s a lot more to these crispy delights than meets the eye.
Here are 15 weird and wonderful facts about French fries that will make you appreciate your next batch even more.
1. French Fries Actually Originated in Belgium
Despite the name, these crispy delights didn’t come from France. They hail from Belgium, where locals have been perfecting the art of frying potatoes since the 1600s. Legend has it, when American soldiers stationed in Belgium during World War I tasted these fries, they called them “French” because French was the local language.
2. Potatoes Were Once Feared in France
Before they became the fry-tastic favorite we know today, potatoes were thought to be the devil’s food in 18th-century France. People genuinely believed that potatoes could cause leprosy. It took a bit of persuasion, and probably some seriously crispy fries, to change their minds.
3. McDonald’s French Fries Used to Cost Only 10 Cents
Imagine a time when a dime could get you a bag of McDonald’s famous fries. Back in the 1950s, you could grab a serving for just 10 cents. Today, those same fries are part of a multi-billion dollar empire that requires over 3.4 billion pounds of potatoes every year. Talk about an inflation-fueled craving!
4. Japan Once Offered Chocolate-Drizzled French Fries
Yes, you read that right—chocolate on fries. McDonald’s Japan launched these sweet-and-salty treats for a limited time in 2016 and 2017, proving that when it comes to fries, anything goes. While it might sound bizarre, chocolate fries gained a cult following, showing that Japan knows how to take food experiments to the next level.
5. The Longest French Fry Ever Recorded Measured 34 Inches
Some fries are short, some are long, but this one takes the cake—er, potato. In South Korea, a fry was discovered that stretched an incredible 34 inches long, smashing the previous record. That’s a fry long enough to wrap around a burger twice!
6. French Fries Are a New Year’s Eve Tradition in Spain
Forget champagne—some Spaniards celebrate the New Year by devouring 12 grapes and 12 fries at midnight. It’s all part of a quirky tradition that’s supposed to bring good luck.
So, if you’re looking to start the year off on the right (and delicious) foot, maybe add some fries to your countdown.
7. Thomas Jefferson’s Influence
America’s third president had more than just political influence—he brought fries to the U.S. After experiencing the magic of fried potatoes during his time in France, Thomas Jefferson made sure they were served at a White House dinner.
Next time you enjoy a side of fries with your burger, you have Jefferson to thank for it.
8. Belgium Consumes the Most French Fries Per Capita
Move over, America—Belgium is the true land of the fries. With an average of 88 pounds of fries consumed per person annually, Belgians treat fries like a food group.
They even have “friteries,” small shops dedicated to serving fries with a dizzying array of sauces.
9. The Frietmuseum in Belgium is Dedicated to French Fries
Speaking of Belgium, they love fries so much they built a whole museum around them. The Frietmuseum in Bruges is the only museum in the world solely dedicated to French fries. It’s a fry lover’s paradise, where you can learn everything from potato history to the perfect frying technique.
10. French Fries Were Invented Out of Necessity
Necessity is the mother of invention, and French fries are no exception. In the 1600s, Belgian villagers turned to frying potatoes when rivers froze over, making it impossible to catch fish. These crispy spuds were so good, they stuck around long after the thaw.
11. McDonald’s Buys Over 3.4 Billion Pounds of Potatoes Annually
McDonald’s fries are iconic, and to keep up with global demand, the fast-food giant buys a staggering 3.4 billion pounds of potatoes every year. That’s enough potatoes to stretch from New York to Los Angeles—and back. Twice.
12. So Many Fry Types
When it comes to fries, variety is the spice of life. There are at least 18 different types, from the curly and crinkle-cut to the waffle and steak fries. Each type offers its own unique crunch and flavor, making it impossible to pick just one favorite.
13. Five Guys Cooks Its Fries in Peanut Oil
Five Guys doesn’t mess around with its fries. Cooked in peanut oil, their fries are known for their crispiness and rich flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the “Cajun style” option adds a spicy kick that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.
14. French Fry Vending Machines Exist in Several Countries
Ever had a fry craving in the middle of the night? In countries like Canada, Australia, and the Netherlands, vending machines have got you covered. These magical machines serve up hot, fresh fries on demand—no human interaction required.
15. World Record Fries
For those who like their fries with a side of luxury, Serendipity 3 in New York serves up the world’s most expensive fries, priced at $200. These decadent fries are topped with truffle salt, truffle oil, and edible gold, because why not?
From their Belgian origins to their journey into space, French fries have a rich and surprising history.
Share these fun facts with fellow fry fans, and enjoy your next serving with a side of trivia!