Cooking shows are to me what soap operas were for my grandmother. I watch a variety of programs, from the Food Network to PBS and the BBC.
The popularity of entertaining cooking shows seems to be in full swing
with new shows emerging all the time. So, it's not terribly surprising
that when a food personality gains popularity, the marketing machine
behind them seeks to profit as much as possible.
But, is there a point where it becomes too much?
My
earliest memories are of Julia Child giving simple advice on french
cookery. It was a magical world back then, there wasn't an internet and
VCRs had not yet been released. Julia worked within the conventional
media of the time, publishing books and producing informative
television shows.
Today, there are a plethora of cookbooks and
magazines spawned from each of our beloved food celebs, but I am
stunned by what else they now sell in their arsenal of goods.
Admittedly, I am guilty of buying a set of Nigella serving platters
many years ago when it all seemed unique and exciting. Fortunately, I
found them at a clearance store and didn't pay full price.
I am
uncertain who to point my finger at for this trend but it's likely the
successful rise of the Martha Stewart empire. And like Martha, the
world of food celeb merchandise seems to be growing exponentially as
well ...
...
and Rachael Ray may just have the most diverse line of goods, from
utensils and bakeware to EVOO and dog food. Yes, dog food.
While
shopping at Wal-Mart recently, I was shocked to find a line of dog food
now available from Rachael Ray. I had to snap this photograph to
document that I wasn't seeing things -- you can click on the photo to
view it in a larger size. Granted, she is a huge dog lover and makes
this widely known. Still, it somehow seems completely absurd to me and
proves that celebs can sell absolutely anything. But, should they?
Sometimes
it feels like they are playing a trick on us, like selling a simple mix
of seasonings for which the recipe is widely known and published.
As 'essence' is to Emeril, 'house seasoning' is to Paula Deen. She uses
it in nearly every episode and has given the recipe before -- it's a
simple mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Why then would house
seasoning be sold for $7.49 for 4oz? Well, because it sells.
As
food celebs gain notoriety and new celebs emerge, the trend in branded
merchandise will surely continue. My prediction is that we'll next see
a liquor line from Sandra Lee or Paula Deen putting her name on tubs of
butter. If marketing research shows they can make a dime off from it,
you can bet it's in development.
Maybe I am too harsh and
bitter, but for me the merchandising distracts from the cooking and
makes me question the authenticity of the food and character of the
celebrity.
What do you think -- are you buying their wares?
Photo Source: personal photo taken at Wal-Mart of Rachael Ray's new 'Nutrish' dog food line
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