anniegreenjeans,

i like your idea: eat the luxury foods in a way that befits such a luxury. i think just making the choice to buy locally will force consumers to be more aware of where their produce comes from. some grocery stores are great about labeling the country of origin. otherwise, just go to the farmer's market. 2 pints of blueberries for $3 this week. can't beat that! and blueberries in the summer, how appropriate!'

and you brought up a good point with the cheeses and oils. it might REALLY hurt to give up the basalmic from modena...but maybe now I'll use in moderation!

i have a question for you, though. you said American's spend 11% of their income on food. Is that a lot or a little as compared to the rest of the world?

thanks!