Make responsible dietary choices

Unfortunately Mr. Pacay (Fence Post, Feb. 11) has twisted information from my statement on Paula Deen and her diabetes and formed an erroneous opinion. I continue to respect Deen’s penchant for dealing with adversity. My challenge is her seeming lack of awareness that her role as a prominent chef carries more weight than that of the ordinary person. How can Pacay determine that I ignore the importance of personal responsibility for dietary choices?

As owner of The Discerning Cook, I promote the importance of personal responsibility both at the market and the home kitchen as well as at the restaurant as you scan the menu. Indeed, I have acted as a nutrition consultant to restaurant owners who understand the need to offer healthier options. Since the Daily Herald limits letters to 300 words, I am unable to fully comment on all the causes involved in our obesity epidemic. Sadly, there is an abundance of blame to go around, including parents who patronize fast food outlets rather than equipping their car with snacks to pacify empty stomachs; members of Congress who continue government subsidies for producers of less-than-healthy foods rather than for farmers growing fruits, vegetables and whole grains; school boards that accept subsidized products to beef up the menu and reduce lunch costs in order to pacify parents and local taxpayers; and marketers of processed foods who have convinced Americans it is both too hard, too time consuming and, frankly, old-fashioned to prepare meals at home.

Whether it’s a celebrity or an ordinary Joe who doesn’t accept personal responsibility for his or her health, the attendant costs affect all taxpayers as Medicare costs escalate. Now that is an unpalatable meal.

Audrey T. Beauvais

Arlington Heights