Government Issued Foodie

Like it or not, the US government has always played an important role in our lives since the very beginning. Whether to lure us into the army by offering a meal or to start a victory garden for health benefits, Uncle Sam has been omnipresent. Now there is a big exhibit regarding the United States and its' relationship with food at the National Archives down in Washington DC. Going to it would be a neat diversion for any foodie visiting the nation's capital.


The exhibit , entitled What's Cooking, Uncle Sam ? The Government's Effect On The American Diet"" was the subject of an interesting article in yesterday's New York Times Dining section. Written by Jennifer Steinhauer, it tell about how the US government has always been a big part of its' citizens' lives. In Colonial times it lured young men to join the Continental Army by promising three meals a day .(a big deal in those days) . Later on it acted as a consumer watch dog, warning housewives of mom and pop ketchup businesses (these produced exploding bottles).The US government also created the FDA after children were sold toxic candies from street vendors in the early 1900's.


The exhibit has amazing artifacts, especially posters from the early 1900's 'There are also documents, collected food labels, film footage and various other artifacts on display. Visitors can see a photo of the famed Frank Nicholas Meyer, a government appointed food explorer who was sent on foreign mission to Asia from the government to bring back new plants and grains. That foodie, must have, the Meyer lemon is named for him . A nearby restaurant, Cafe Atlantico has been renamed America Eats Tavern in companionship with the exhibit. It will serve American classics such as burgoo, clam chowder and oysters Rockefeller. The first floor will serve classic American cocktails such as Ben Franklin's milk punch and Champagne cocktail, first served at new York's Waldorf Astoria Hotel.

If you're in Washington this summer (along with the fall and winter. the show ends January 3rd, 2012) then stop by the National Archives. You'll receive an enjoyable look into the government's role in how and what we eat. it's informative and fun , a look back into our government influenced culinary past.

What's Cooking Uncle Sam? The Government's Effect on the American Diet" will be at the National Archives from June 10th to January 3, America Eats tavern is located at 405 Eighth Street NW Washington DC.