Olympic medallist claims worms are in food at Olympic Village

Adam Peaty, the six-time Olympic medallist, has raised concerns over the quality of food provided to athletes at the Paris 2024 Olympics, claiming that some athletes have discovered worms in their meals.

Peaty has expressed dissatisfaction with both the quantity and quality of the food available at the Olympic village, suggesting that it could negatively impact athletes' performances.

“The catering isn’t up to the standard expected for athletes performing at this level,” Peaty told the i. “We need to provide the best possible options. The food in Tokyo was incredible, and Rio was incredible. But this time? There weren’t enough protein options, long queues, and waiting 30 minutes for food because of the lack of a queuing system.”

In line with the Games' sustainability commitments, organizers have aimed for 60% of all meals served to be meatless and a third to be plant-based. However, Peaty argued that this approach does not suit all athletes. “The sustainability narrative has been pushed onto us,” he said. “I need meat to perform, and that's what I eat at home, so why should I change?”

Peaty also raised concerns about food safety. “I like my fish, but people are finding worms in the fish. It’s just not good enough. We’re talking about the best athletes in the world, and they’re not being fed the best.”

A spokesperson for Paris 2024 responded to the criticism, saying, “We are listening to the athletes and take their feedback very seriously. Since the village opened, our partner Sodexo Live! has been working proactively to adapt supplies to the increased usage of the village restaurants and the consumption patterns observed in the first few days.

“As a result, the quantities of certain products have been significantly increased, and additional staff have been deployed to ensure smooth service.”