Amazon Chef Quits Earthshot Prize Gig, Citing "Disrespect" for Culinary Traditions

In a surprising move, a renowned Brazilian chef has declined to cater the upcoming Earthshot Prize awards ceremony in Rio de Janeiro. Saulo Jennings, who was invited to create the menu for the prestigious environmental event, was asked by the organizers to serve a fully vegan selection.

Jennings, who is acclaimed for his sustainable cuisine featuring ingredients from the Amazon rainforest, had hoped to present guests with a pirarucu, a large river fish that has become a symbol of environmental recovery in the region. However, the organizers insisted on a vegan-only menu, which Jennings described as a "lack of respect" for local culinary traditions.

"It's like asking Iron Maiden to play jazz," Jennings told the New York Times, expressing his disappointment with the decision. The chef later agreed to a vegan menu featuring local produce, but the quoted price was above the event's budget, leading the organizers to choose another supplier.

Despite the setback, Jennings remains committed to his culinary mission of honoring the Amazon's bounty. He will have the opportunity to showcase his skills when he caters for Prince William at the upcoming COP30 summit in Belem, Brazil, where he plans to serve fish dishes with the same respect for tradition and sustainability.