The US agriculture secretary, Brooke Rollins, is facing ridicule from congressional Democrats – among others – after claiming Americans can save money and have their meals align with new Department of Health and Human Services dietary guidelines by simply eating “a piece of chicken, a piece of broccoli”, “a corn tortilla” and “one other thing”.
One representative even called the remarks “a slap in the face to struggling working families”.
Rollins made the remarks during an interview with NewsNation in response to a question about how average Americans will afford adapting their meals to the White House’s updated food pyramid, which emphasizes red meat, full-fat dairy and saturated fats while discouraging ultra-processed foods and sugar. The rising cost of groceries has been a major issue for Americans in recent years.
So, the Columbo approach to meal planning. And I do love having a single spear of broccoli for garnish atop a corn tortilla.
ETA: The irony of saying immigrants are the problem and then suggesting tortillas is … stunning.
Wanna know what’s cheap, nutritious, and tasty? Black beans, white rice, and a corn (or flour) tortilla with a little butter (or butter alternative). Add some meat if you have it and some cilantro if you want, but the beans and rice are super cheap in bulk, and beans are great. You can also refry the beans (less healthy ofc) or cook the leftovers into gallo pinto. There’s also other ways to prepare them, like soups, tacos, burritos, etc. You can even turn the rice into horchata (just be careful to find a recipe that’s food safe!).
Look, I grew up on this food, and it’s damn good. Also, the base ingredients are as cheap as it gets.
Ironically, my partner is allergic to broccoli, so the suggested meal wouldn’t even work for us. And that’s of course ignoring vegans and vegetarians.
Why would you encourage people to eat soap?
Keeps your insides clean. Soap should also break down any fats and cholesterols in the blood.*
* Do not try this at home.
You can just suggest bleach injections and divert responsibility. It’s still better than eating cilantro.