The 1980s saw a vogue for the “French paradox” contradicting the diet-heart dogma of direct correlation between coronary heart disease (CHD) and saturated fat intake. However, epidemiologic evidence, notably the MONItoring of trends and determinants in CArdiovascular disease (MONICA) registry, favors “moderate” rather than “exceptionally low” susceptibility to CHD in France, consistent with latitude. Many other European countries display similar north/eastsouth gradients. CHD etiology also depends on factors irreducible to animal fat intake, some cultural (regular vs binge drinking), others environmental, as suggested (but unproven) by the geographic gradient. French CHD rates are not so low, nor animal fat intake so high, nor the diet-heart concept so unique, as to sustain the “French paradox” any further, except as cultural fantasy or a marketing ploy...