Comedian Michael Ian Black Reveals His 'Moral Problem' With Ketchup

The SNACKS! podcast host also shared his strong opinions on barbecue chips and fries vs. chips.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Comedian Michael Ian Black appeared on the latest episode of the SNACKS! podcast and revealed his controversial food opinions, including his 'moral problem' with ketchup, which he finds too sweet. Black also shared his dislike for barbecue-flavored chips and his preference for calling french fries 'fries' instead of 'chips'.

Why it matters

Black's strong stances on common food items like ketchup and chips highlight how personal and subjective food preferences can be, even for public figures. His comments spark discussion around the diversity of tastes and the ongoing debate around terminology for certain foods.

The details

During the SNACKS! podcast, Black told host Joanna Saltz that he has a 'moral problem with ketchup' because he finds it too sweet, preferring savory or spicy condiments instead. He also expressed dislike for barbecue-flavored chips, saying the flavor gets 'too sweet' and 'crosses into ketchup territory.' Additionally, Black argued that 'fry' is a better name than 'chip' for french fries, and that 'crisp' is a better term than 'chip' for potato chips.

  • The SNACKS! podcast episode featuring Michael Ian Black's comments was released on February 11, 2026.

The players

Michael Ian Black

A comedian who appeared as a guest on the SNACKS! podcast to share his controversial food opinions.

Joanna Saltz

The editorial director of Delish and the host of the SNACKS! podcast.

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What they’re saying

“I have a moral problem with ketchup. I don't like it. It's too sweet.”

— Michael Ian Black (SNACKS!)

“When barbecue flavor gets too sweet, especially on chips, it crosses into ketchup territory...I will never have a barbecue chip in the house.”

— Michael Ian Black (SNACKS!)

“I think crisp is a far better name for chip, but I think fry is a far better name for fries than chips.”

— Michael Ian Black (SNACKS!)

The takeaway

Michael Ian Black's strong opinions on common food items like ketchup and chips highlight the subjective nature of food preferences, even among public figures. His comments spark discussion around the diversity of tastes and the ongoing debate around food terminology.