KFC pulls ‘Finger Lickin’ Good’ campaign, says it’s an inappropriate slogan for 2020

Deeming it the “most inappropriate slogan for 2020,” KFC has suspended its famous tagline after 64 years.

“It’s Finger Lickin’ Good” will be paused worldwide, KFC said Monday, adding that the slogan is a “bit off...for now.”

“We find ourselves in a unique situation — having an iconic slogan that doesn’t quite fit in the current environment. While we are pausing the use of ‘It’s Finger Lickin’ Good,’ rest assured the food craved by so many people around the world isn’t changing one bit.” Catherine Tan-Gillespie, global chief marketing officer at KFC, said in a statement.

So why would KFC no longer use the famous slogan? Perhaps because you shouldn’t be putting your hands near your face during the coronavirus pandemic.

“Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands,” the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises.

KFC insists the slogan will be back “when the time is right.”

The chain announced the news in a YouTube video Monday, blurring “finger lickin’” from some of its iconic ads over the years.

“That thing we always say? Ignore it. For now,” the ad says.