Perhaps I’m too sensitive to the legion of anti-semitic conspiracy theorists who believe that Jews own the media. Regardless of whether the intention was to send a coded message to the faithful, I think someone at the Corn Refiners Association should have taken a better look at this ad before they put it in newspapers. This picture is from the Washington Post, A16, September 9, 2008. I couldn’t find a pdf of this particular ad:

Above the bagel, in bold: “Could it be another schmear campaign?” The very first sentence under the bagel: “Lately, high fructose corn syrup has had its name dragged through the media.” I think you’re on shaky ground, juxtaposing a broadly worded attack on the media with a bagel. And a bagel with a Yiddish word in the boldface above it, no less.

The ad sends readers to SweetSurprise.com”, and I’m actually going to leave aside any thoughts about the corn-industrial complex, their battle with Big Sugar, or nutrition in general.

Corn farmers are traditionally portrayed in popular culture as paragons of white, wholesome Middle America. I’m bothered by this ad, with it’s suggestion – intentional or unintentional – that the Jewish-controlled media is trying to ruin something people have worked hard to build.

Am I reading too much? What are your thoughts?

Full text of the ad: Lately, high fructose corn syrup has had its name dragged through the media. Truth is, it’s nutritionally the same as table sugar. Has the same number of calories, too. Even registered dietitians agree that you can keep enjoying the foods and beverages you love, just do it in moderation. To get the facts, visit our website. We welcome a healthy discussion.