Unmentionable Cuisine' is an important new book about unusual animal protein sources and the more economical use of standard foods. A recognized authority on nutrition and a veteran observer of the world food situation, Dr. Calvin Schwabe establishes the fact that herbivorous animals and fish provide the only vehicle for the exploitation of immense land and sea areas for food production. He presents here a collection of recipes that offer alternatives to our narrow-based diet. The recipes are for the preparation of uncommon fish and fowl, and variety cuts of cattle, pig, and sheep -- as well as "unmentionable" animals that are standard fare for millions of non-Americans. The significance of this book is unquestionable. Americans must find more efficient and varied ways to eat if they are to survive. 'Unmentionable Cuisine' addresses itself to the deep-seated aversions and food prejudices that have precipitated an alarming decline in the variety and quality of the American diet. Highly sensitive and emotional responses lie behind these prejudices. 'Unmentionable Cuisine' exposes these irrational behavior patterns in American food habits as it compares them to the equally indefensible but easier to recognize prejudices of others. Opening our minds about food and educating our palates to new and varied experiences will prove as enjoyable as it is necessary. This collection is a cross section of recipes taken from national cuisines. Many of these have never appeared in print, and most, including several from mainland China, have not been available in English. The recipes are stimulating, different, and delicious. Dr. Schwabe's comments on the history, the lore, and the anthropological significance of diverse food habits in all parts of the world are fascinating and most informative."--