Culinary Xenophobia

At Asian Talks: Hold the Onions, Please

Reuters India is reporting that the chefs charged with preparing the menus for U.S. President Barack Obama and other world leaders at the 21-member Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Singapore this week have been told to minimize the use of garlic and onion "to ensure the talks are not an olfactory challenge." Breath mints will also be "readily available."

White House Farmers Market Approved

A permit was approved Thursday for a farmers market near the White House. The market will be open on Thursdays from Sept. 17 through Oct. 29.

Obama Drops Hint of a White House Farmers Market

Fresh peas on Pennsylvania Avenue? Could a farmers market be coming to the White House?

According to remarks made by President Barack Obama at yesterday's Organizing for America health care forum, the creation of a small farmer's market is being considered just outside of the White House:

House Passes Food Safety Bill

After an initial defeat, the House passed Food Safety Enhancement Act of 2009 on Thursday. The Washington Post highlights its key provisions.

Food Safety Bill Defeated

On Wednesday, the U.S. House defeated a bill that would have provided for major reform the federal food safety system.

Race, Pluralism, and Beer

President Obama will not enforce a singular choice of beer today for Professor Gates and Sergeant Crowley. According to the White House, Obama has chosen Bud Light (blech), and his guests may choose their own preferred suds.

Of Hops and Healing

Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. and police Sgt. James Crowley have accepted the president's invitation to come to the White House for a round of beer and racial reconciliation. But, exactly what kind of beer should Obama serve?

Florida Establishes Honey Purity Standard

According to a new regulation by its Agriculture and Consumer Services Commission, the State of Florida has established a "Standard of Identity" for all honey made or sold in the state.

A press release from the Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commission called the measure "the first regulation in the nation – and perhaps the world – prohibiting any additives, chemicals or adulterants in honey produced, processed or sold in Florida."

G8 Pledges $20 Billion for Food Security

The G8 nations have agreed to pledge $20 billion to support agriculture projects in poor countries, help fight hunger, and control spiking food prices.