Whenever HG/BSK return to the United States from Europe they are startled by the immense size of many Americans. Lots of overweight people and many cases of morbid obesity. HG links this phenomenon to economics (and, in turn, the preponderance of cheap, processed foods). Exhausted by their jobs (sometimes two jobs) and household duties, many families rely on takeout from the pizza chains and KFC. And, the food is washed down with Coke and other sugary, chemical and caffeine laden soft drinks. HG is always distressed when supermarket shopping to see obese women from lower economic strata wheel carts filled with “snacks”, sugary breakfast cereals like Fruit Loops and, of course, carbonated soft drinks and unhealthy “energy” drinks. Sad. Wave after wave of TV commercials herald the delights of McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Arby’s, KFC, Pizza Hut, Domino’s, Burger King, etc.. All are an assault on the palate and good health. They are vile. HG approves of Chipotle and hopes the company has overcome its recent problems. HG likes Waffle House and its down to earth food. This year HG took a five and a half day auto trip from Santa Fe to Prince Edward Island. Discovered (after research) splendid restaurants minutes from highways traveled by HG/BSK. Finds included Jewish delicatessens, Greek and Cajun cuisine, barbecue (Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi style); seafood. And, of course, honest, tasty burgers cooked in diners. Infinitely better than he crap dished out by the chains.
