Prince Charles took a swipe at the world's largest fast food franchise during a recent visit to the United Arab Emirates. During a speaking engagement at the Imperial College London Diabetes Center in Abu Dhabi, the prince, known as an outspoken health advocate, suggested that the emirates should ban McDonald's.

The emirates have one the world's highest number of cases of diabetes. Approximately 40 percent of the population is at risk of developing the disease. The seven emirates bank the Arab Peninsula and are fast becoming popular tourist destinations because of warm weather and beautiful sandy beaches. There are already 25 McDonald's franchises located throughout the federation.

While banning fast food establishments from countries that are just beginning to open their doors to them may seem like a practical solution, it is not very realistic. Countries that depend on tourism are not likely to ban companies that could potentially help the economy.

The remarks made by Prince Charles may not have been well thought out, but they are not exactly surprising. The prince is a big proponent of healthy eating and even created an organic farm. His work to promote proper nutrition is admirable but perhaps he needs to look into more viable options for change.