Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
- allergen / ˈæl ər dʒən, -ˌdʒɛn / (n) – a substance that causes allergic reaction
Example:The company claims that their products are free from allergens.
- looking up / lʊkɪŋ ʌp / (idiom) – referring to something that shows improvement
Example:It seems that things are looking up for our business given the increase in profit.
- indulge / ɪnˈdʌldʒ / (v) – to allow oneself to satisfy a desire
Example:I indulged myself in a delicious meal.
- committed / kəˈmɪt ɪd / (adj) – having a sense of obligation
Example:The company is committed to promoting healthy living.
- organic / ɔrˈgæn ɪk / (adj) – made of natural substances
Example:Organic food is healthier than fast food.
Article
Read the text below.
Food businesses catering to customers’ health concerns and lifestyles are on the rise.
Data revealed that around 15 million people in America suffer from nut and egg allergies. As a result, several people are unable to consume food that use these ingredients such as ice cream. However, in 2015, restaurateur Marc Roth founded A La Mode – a New York-based ice cream parlor specializing in products free from allergens such as nuts and eggs. Roth got the idea from his nephew who suffers from serious food allergies.
When A La Mode first opened in March 2015, it had a daily average of only 15 to 20 customers. However, things started looking up for the business when a customer posted a photo of A La Mode on social media. According to Roth, the customer was thrilled that his child, who is allergic to nuts, could finally enjoy ice cream.
The customer’s social media post eventually drew retailers. Although A La Mode’s success will likely result in the emergence of similar businesses, Roth assured that he is open to having competitors. He added that raising awareness about food allergies and giving people suffering from allergies an opportunity to indulge in delicious food are more important.
Aside from A La Mode, another food establishment is committed to its customers’ health and lifestyle. Bareburgers, a burger joint serving organic food, uses naturally grown ingredients for their products. The business also ensures that its products are free from harmful substances such as pesticides. According to CEO Euripides Pelekanos, Bareburgers will continue its mission to create a healthier and more sustainable local food system.
Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
• Between A La Mode and Bareburgers, which would you like to try? Why?
• What factors do you consider when choosing food to eat? (e.g. price, packaging, health and lifestyle, popularity, etc.)
Discussion B
• Should restaurants consider the different lifestyles of people when developing food products? Why or why not?
• What other factors should restaurants consider when developing food products?