Ketchup popsicle blends up controversy online

A new popsicle flavour is dividing the internet.

French’s has unveiled a ketchup-flavoured icy treat, telling Canadians their “favourite condiment just got a whole lot cooler.”

Some people in Vancouver were able to try the flavour Thursday, with some samples handed out around Pacific Centre Mall until 2:30 p.m.

But days before the sample fair, the ketchup snack was already stirring up controversy on social media.

Thousands of people have commented on the company’s tweet unveiling the new product — and many of the replies are what you would expect.

“Who thought this was a good idea?” asked one person.

“Canada just lost 50 points in the CA vs USA culture war,” another tweeted.

“This has Americans pitching a fit, but I for one am here for it,” a third wrote.

“I love ketchup as much is the next person. But this is horrifying,” read another tweet, with French’s responding with, “It tastes great, trust us!”

But not everyone was totally against the idea. Some people expressed a desire to try the ketchup flavoured snack.

Others joked that with tomato juice already a thing, the “natural progression would be cold to frozen.”

The company describes it as a “savoury tomato flavour perfectly balanced with a hint of salty sweetness.”

French’s notes the popsicle is made in partnership with Happy Pops and is made from 100 per cent Canadian tomatoes.

The popsicle flavour is only available at pop-up locations for a limited time in Vancouver, Toronto, and Leamington, On.

And it’s not all bad. French’s says for every popsicle given away, two meals will be donated to Food Banks Canada.