A surprising detail about Kentucky Fried Chicken's iconic gravy has emerged decades after its creation: its founder, Colonel Harland Sanders, reportedly despised it.

Newly surfaced legal documents from a 1970s lawsuit detail Sanders' strong negative opinions about the creamy side dish that has become a staple for the fast-food chain. The documents, part of a legal battle between Sanders and KFC's corporate ownership at the time, paint a picture of the Colonel's frustration with the direction his company was taking.

According to court filings, Sanders referred to the gravy as "wallpaper paste" and "garbage." He expressed dismay that the recipe had been altered from his original, more flavorful version, which he believed was superior. His strong feelings were so pronounced that he actively campaigned against the version being served to customers.

These revelations shed new light on potential internal conflicts within KFC during its rapid expansion phase. Sanders, a notoriously exacting figure, was known for his high standards regarding the quality and taste of his "finger lickin' good" chicken and its accompaniments.

The lawsuit itself was related to Sanders' dissatisfaction with the company's management and its handling of his intellectual property and brand. His vocal criticism of the gravy was part of a broader pattern of concern over the chain's commercialization and departure from his original vision.

Despite the Colonel's personal aversion, KFC gravy has endured as one of the brand's most popular items. It remains a consistent seller, often ordered alongside the original recipe chicken, mashed potatoes, and biscuits.

This historical detail offers a unique glimpse into the complexities behind the scenes of a global fast-food empire and the passionate, albeit critical, perspective of its famous founder. It highlights how a product a brand's namesake personally disliked could go on to become a beloved menu item.

The legacy of Colonel Sanders continues to be debated and analyzed, with insights like these offering a more nuanced understanding of the man behind the white suit and the enduring brand.