Diabetes, Obesity Drain S.F. Economy Even More Than ‘Soda Tax’ Backers Proclaim

Story by Sara Bloomberg

The overall economic impact of obesity and diabetes in San Francisco may be close to $1 billion a year, city researchers have found. But Proposition V, which proposes to tax distributors of sugary drinks, dramatically understates the costs of those diseases to the city and its residents.

Study: Health, Economic Benefits Emerging From Mexico’s ‘Soda Tax’

Story by Sara Bloomberg

A Mexican tax on sugary beverages has reduced consumption since 2014, and as a result is projected to help cut rates of diabetes, improve overall health and bring other indirect cost savings, according to a study published Tuesday.

International Cuisine: 5 Favorite Bay Area Specialty Food Shops

Photos by Sara Bloomberg.    

Here are five favorite specialty shops selling food and culinary goods imported from Spain, Japan, Russia, Germany and Italy.

Celebrating 35 Years of Garlic at the Gilroy Garlic Festival: Gastronomic Highlights

Story and Photos by Gina Scialabba and Sara Bloomberg

This year marked the 35th anniversary of the ultimate summer food extravaganza— Gilroy’s Garlic Festival. It was a three-day event packed with…well, food. Lots of food. Specifically, garlic. 82 tons of fresh California garlic to be precise. The aroma was overwhelming and inviting at the same time.

Oakland restaurant sued for wage theft, labor abuses (video)

Story, photos and video by Sara Bloomberg

Wage theft. No breaks. Fired without cause.

This is the thanks they got for helping open a trendy Mexican restaurant, Calavera, at the Hive in downtown Oakland, a group of former employees claim. They filed a class action lawsuit on April 1 against the restaurant’s owners and executive chef.