super sized

[shootingstar]

The worst part about all this is that 90% (or greater) of the US population LOVES that they get huge portions. "Oh, think of the value I'm getting"...not even questioning WHY these food places can afford to give you huge portions. It's because the food is so damn cheap to make. That's what industrializing the food chain, feed lots and HFCS has done for us. Food is so cheap that we've gotten used to huge portions and now expect it. It's sad really.

Though, I do admit that I like the free refill feature on soda machines. I only drink diet (and only when eating out as a 'treat')...but I'm a thirsty person, so I am happy to see unlimited liquids at my disposal.

Supersizing of food is highly noticeable whenever we travel to the U.S. When my partner when cycling with another guy across 1/2 of the length of the U.S., a few years ago, they were both shocked to be in a place somewhere in the northern Midwest (Idaho or Montana) where 90% of the diners were significantly obese.

Biclista, the large ice cream portions at the chain, Cold Stone Creamery, just floors us whenever we go to Seattle. In Vancouver, BC you would pay the same price but get approx. 50-70% of the Seattle ice cream portions...of course, we tend to go for gelato here, which isn't as creamy but stronger in flavour.

If I allow myself to eat supersized meal without planning for it in advance, then I do adjust my next meal to smaller size accordingly.. or have nothing. Not a good thing, but the tummy is still stretched hrs. later.

Unfortunately my love of coffee is such that I often do have a "tall" size if going to Starbuck's. No sugar, please. And no lattes from there....better elsewhere to get a latte at a cheaper price and without the syrup injections, etc.

Do I ask for a smaller size? I must admit no. But will ask server in advance on approx. serving size if the dish looks abit expensive/rich in taste/calories, etc. If it's seafood/veggies and not deep fried, I will eat alot of it. But then I just order 1 dish if it ends up big, with a juice or coffee, no appetizer nor dessert.

In the Greater Vancouver area there are some great Chinese restaurants (where portions in Chinese restaurants, do look supersized no matter which country you are in but dish is meant to be shared) , but I have resigned myself if I'm just going out to a Chinese restaurant with my dearie, I aim for a medium sized soup broth with noodles, veggies, sometimes meat, etc. with some dim sum on the side.

It's a tough one for me, because there are some fantastic restaurant (authentic) Chinese dishes that I would love to have (and Vancouver is rated top by Chinese-North Americans for authentic, good tasting food)...but I'm not keen on microwaving leftover stir-fried food the next day. So I always welcome going with a crowd of people to share the goodies at such establishments.