attack of the genetically engineered sugar beets

The Organic Consumers Association, a great watchdog/advocacy group for sustainable foods, recently issued an alert about the US governments approval of genetically engineered sugar beets:

"Since half of the granulated sugar in the U.S. comes from sugar beets, a move towards biotech beets marks a dramatic alteration of the U.S. food supply. These sugars, along with GE corn and soy, are found in many conventional food products, so consumers will be exposed to genetically engineered ingredients in just about every non-organic multiple-ingredient product they purchase."

I recommended using their email petition to take action now (located on the same page).

gourmet boutique brasserie cafe bistro factory farm

In yet another contaminated food situation, Target has issued a recall for beef, pork, and poultry produced by one of its suppliers, Gourmet Boutique in Queens, New York. The Pioneer Press covered the story in an article today, which mentions that the meat was recalled due to the possible presence of listeria.

Using perhaps the most oxymoronic name a mass-produced food manufacturer could have, there are all sorts of flowery messages on their website, including:

"We start with the finest and freshest Grade "A" meats and vegetables which are received daily from local produce and meat markets." Yeah... Sure...

There should be laws against completely inaccurate company names, as there's nothing "gourmet" or "boutique" about the listeria found in frozen burritos at big box grocery chains.

Adding insult to injury, according to the website they specialize in "Home Meal Replacements." Creepy.

the beef

Just wanted to drop a quick note saying I purchased some grass-fed beef round steak from Thousand Hills Cattle Co. yesterday. We grilled those babies up this afternoon and I must say, they were ultra tasty medium rare, with just a coating of salt and fresh ground black pepper.

I believe this is the same beef served at the East Side's new gastronomic darling, The Strip Club. I'm embarrassed that I haven't been there yet, but expect a full review as soon as possible.