The response to the looming problem causes concern, with millions being wasted by lawyers, lobbyists, and politicians. Better communication, understanding and appreciation of what we eat and drink is needed, not litigation, nor using the obesity issue as a distraction for political gain.

The question of the looming Obesity Epidemic, and the destructive and expensive ramifications for the United States is now at the forefront of public awareness. 300,000 will die this year, and more next year. Productivity will suffer, and over time our ability to be competitive in the global marketplace will be severely impacted. For tens of millions their quality of life will suffer.

The politicians, lawyers and lobbyists are starting to do the “Headless Chicken Dance” around Washington over the threat of lawsuits against the huge mega fast food corporations. This knee jerk reaction does nothing to prevent, nor cure the epidemic facing the nation, thanks to over indulgence in sugar laden fast foods. It is a meaningless political farce, in an election year.

The public have menu choices, as well as size choices. If they choose to stuff processed foods, full of chemicals, and subsidized Corn Syrup till they burst, that is their choice. The public can choose to seek the advice of Chef’s and foodservice professionals, with years of exhaustive training and expertise, or listen to the advice of a High School Kid working in a Fast Food Burger Shop. That too is their choice. Millions around the world facing death from starvation wish it was their choice too.

There is enough blame to go around, and pumping millions into lawsuits, when it was a matter of choice is not the answer. Improved training, professional development, and unbiased news reporting for consumers is the answer. Obesity can be reversed, even eliminated. What is needed is guidance for those wanting to improve their health, and enjoyment of life.

In the closing months of the Bush Administration the political spin doctors at Department of Health and Human Services seek to divert attention from other areas and use the obesity problem for political gain. This is not a fleeting issue wheeled out for the voters distraction, but a long term decline in quality of life, which needs long term education, understanding the foods we eat, and their preparation. It should have been addressed years ago.

Now is the time for industry and government to support those of us who seek to improve the global flow of culinary information and professional development. The dollars being spent on vitriolic finger pointing should be used instead to improve the appreciation, understanding and enjoyment of food.

The Chef’s Channel has been created to improve the flow of independent information and professional development resources for the global foodservice and hospitality industry. More details can be found on www.ChefsTV.com