When it comes to what I would never eat, even if offered a million dollars, the list is quite extensive and includes items that most people might find surprising. My dietary preferences are far from conventional, and I have a number of things I absolutely refuse to consume. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind these choices and uncover the secrets of my unique food preferences.

The Organ Meat Taboo

First on the list is organ meat, such as haggis. Haggis, to some, might be a novelty or even an indulgence at a special occasion; however, I firmly believe that no amount of money or social pressure will compel me to partake in such a dish. I attended a friend's wedding where haggis was served, and that singular encounter was enough to solidify my resolve to avoid organ meats for life.

Aversion to Foul Smells and Textures

My aversion to certain cheeses, particularly blue cheese and brie, is similarly extreme. I have a rule that I will not consume these unless absolutely necessary. On a recent occasion, my friend and I went out to eat pizza. He ordered his with brie and caramalised onions, while I had a salmon pizza. When my friend couldn't finish his pizza, he offered it to me, thinking I might want to take it home for breakfast. However, my encounter with the brie was disastrous: I took a few bites and nearly threw up, ultimately giving the pizza to my dog, who eagerly consumed it.

Refusal to Eat Endangered or Cruelly Raised Products

My ethics play a significant role in my food decisions. I am adamant about not eating anything derived from endangered species, such as shark’s nest, or produced with exceptional cruelty, like foie gras. Although I partake in eating meat, I am conflicted by the suffering of animals that I do consume, as they are still subject to the same treatment as other animals at slaughterhouses.

The Horror of Insect and Bug-Infested Foods

Bugs and insects, or any form of aquatic invertebrates, are a no-go for me, even if I were offered a hefty sum of money. The idea of consuming bugs that are crunchy and full of guts is simply too unsettling. An unfortunate incident with a stick of butter that contained an ant (which I only discovered after tasting it) taught me a valuable lesson to always inspect my food meticulously.

No Fish for Millions

When it comes to fish, no amount of money could convince me to eat it. I have a deep-seated aversion to the taste and smell of fish, which stems from my childhood experiences. At the age of 7 to 11, I was forced to eat fish soup, a home-cooked dish that was far from appetizing. The soup was slimy, gritty, and filled with bones and scales that even young children found hard to swallow. Despite becoming a vegetarian at 11, the taste and smell of fish still evoke a strong sense of revulsion in me, to this day.

My food choices are diverse and often based on personal preference, ethical considerations, and past experiences. These dietary choices are not just a matter of taste; they reflect my core beliefs and values. Whether it's avoiding organ meats, brie cheese, endangered species, or the taste of fish, my decisions are driven by a deep-seated respect for different types of life and a commitment to my own well-being.