:: Friday Feast ::

In honour of the new Spam advertising campaign, the Guardian has compiled a cross-section of opinions on that flabby pink pseudo-meat. Surprisingly enough, this mainstay of rationbook cuisine has a devoted following in the US, with a novelty Spam-Mobile handing out free slabs of porky goodness to all and sundry. Resisting (most of) the obvious references, I was interested to note that Hormel also produce the rather more upmarket Carapelli Olive Oil. This is one of the more interesting features of my job: unearthing the unholy culinary alliances brought about by multinational food companies. So, for example, Marmite and Ben & Jerry's are both ultimately owned by Anglo-Dutch megafirm Unilever, who also possess an extensive non-food portfolio of familiar brands. In order to promote its diversity, the company has invested millions in a new logo, accompanied by all the corporate wank you might expect.

For lunch today with Lava Lamp, I enjoyed a heart-warmingly stodgy portion of spicy Corn Chowder. This type of soup is a personal favourite (although you do see the occasional dodgy recipe. I'm also a big fan of the New England (fish) and clam varieties, the latter of which is a must (as well as the obvious!) at the Grand Central Oyster Bar.

And just in case you thought I'd forgotton the serious bit, I was interested to read Simon Schama on Divided America. Some thought provoking statements indeed. Perhaps the oft-mooted idea of New York's secession from the Union will once again rear its head. No doubt the recent actions of the USAF will only strengthen this view...