Source:  Various

Top Chef Canada, a popular program on Food Network Canada, is featuring a 'traditional' French cuisine theme this week.  One dish has stirred controversy among horse lovers:  A contestant must prepare a meal containing horse-meat.

On Top Chef Canada's Facebook page, the show's representatives have stated:

We understand there is growing concern about an upcoming episode of Top Chef Canada.... Some viewers have noted their belief that the use of horse meat in a culinary challenge on the show is controversial. Please be assured it is not our intention to offend our viewers. The challenge in this episode involves having the competitors create a truly authentic, traditional French menu. One of the most traditional French foods is horsemeat. Horsemeat is also considered a delicacy in many cultures around the world.  While we understand that this content may not appeal to all viewers, Food Network Canada aims to engage a wide audience, embracing different food cultures in our programming. We thank you for expressing your concerns.    Sincerely, Food Network Canada

By: Top Chef Canada

 

Meanwhile, anti-horse-meat advocates have been actively commenting on Top Chef Canada's page and have set up their own Facebook page.  In addition, they are organizing boycotts of the program's sponsors.

The Canadian Horse Defense Coalition, an anti-slaughter organization, has also suggested that those who are offended by the show send email messages to Shaw Media, the parent company of Food Channel Canada.

The network plans to air the episode on Monday, May 16.