25 signatures reached
To: UK supermarkets and retailers.
Change the marketing name of “Kaffir Lime Leaves” to it’s Thai name “Makrut Lime Leaves”
We are asking for our supermarkets and retailers to stop marketing lime leaves under the name “Kaffir”, and use the name “Makrut Lime Leaves” instead.
Why is this important?
The word “Kaffir” has roots in the Arabic language but has come to be a racial slur, usually directed at Black African people, around the world. It’s etymology with regards to the fruit and tree is not clear, however it is believed to have racial connotations.
Lime leaves are increasingly becoming a cupboard and freezer staple in the UK thanks to the growth in popularity of Thai food on the British isles. The name “Makrut” is commonly used in Thailand and the name is free of any racial or negative connotations. “Makrut” is a more suitable term for our retailers to market this produce under.
Britain has a proud history of multiculturalism and anti-racism. Whilst the term “Kaffir” may not be in common usage here, it’s meaning can still be felt by many who reside in the UK.
Food is a cultural cornerstone and every dish we eat reflects thousands of years of human history, as well as trillions of years of natural history. It always reflect the movement and integration of peoples, and we can nurture and promote that by giving lime leaves the name they deserve. We can prevent the unnecessary use of an offensive racial epithet by people who simply want to enjoy good food.
