‘Illegal’: Outrage over Anzac biscuits incorrectly labelled as ‘cookies’ at royal event

Many who spotted the error have called it “disrespectful” and “insulting” and some have even questioned if it’s legal.

Eagle-eyed Australians have spotted a royal error in a menu during the King’s visit to Australia, which some have labelled as “insulting” and “criminal”.

On Monday evening, the Federal government hosted its Parliamentary Reception for King Charles III and Queen Camilla as part of their royal visit of Australia.

During the event, which was held at the Great Hall and hosted by the Prime Minister and MsJodie Haydon, guests were treated an array of treats.

A menu, which was shared online, shows guests had a choice of savory and sweet canapes, including crab cake, arancini and cheesecake.

However, one item caught the attention of many Aussies and sparked outrage.

Passed out at the dinner were Anzac biscuits, incorrectly labelled as “cookies” – a move that could technically be illegal.

Is this a royal stuff-up? Picture: X

There are strict regulations regarding the name of Anzac biscuits. Picture: Facebook

“Excuse me what is an Anzac ‘cookie’?” a woman shared on X (formerly Twitter).

The “cringe” move was slammed by many online, with some labelling it as an “abomination” and “illegal”.

Others suggested the move could technically violate the government’s own guidelines.

There are explicit regulations regarding the use of the word “Anzac”, particularly in terms of food.

According to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Anzac biscuits must explicitly be called “biscuits” and never referred to as “cookies”.

“The use of the word ‘Anzac’ in the commercial production and sale of Anzac biscuits is usually approved,” the guidelines read.

“However the biscuits … must be referred to as ‘Anzac biscuits’ or ‘Anzac Slice’ (not ‘Anzac Cookies’).”

It is not clear if the King indugled in an Anzac biscuit, or if he was aware of the scandal. Photo by Victoria Jones - Pool/Getty Images

Anzac Buscuits. Picture: Facebook

The mistake was quickly called out online.

“That is shameful”, one person lamented. Some argued it was “definitely a faux pas”, while others called the mistake “wrong” and “sacrilege” to the memory of Australian veterans.

“Insulting they called it a cookie when it’s an Anzac biscuit,” said another. “(It’s) disrespectful to our Anzacs.”

NewsWire has reached out to Parliament House and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs for comment.

What you can and can’t call Anzac biscuits:

In order to use the word “Anzac” in reference to your baked goods, the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) says they can’t “substantially deviate from the generally accepted recipe and shape”.

That means the addition of non-traditional ingredients like chocolate or fruit, or crafting them in a novelty shape is out.

They must also be called “Anzac biscuits” or “Anzac slice” — never “Anzac cookies”.

If you’re found to breach the regulations, you could face up to 12 months in prison or a fine.

Originally published as ‘Illegal’: Outrage over Anzac biscuits incorrectly labelled as ‘cookies’ at royal event