Are the clever, humorous marketing labels given to ethnic products at Trader Joe’s to be denied?

“Trader Ming’s”, “Trader Jose’s” and “Trader Giotto’s” are all meant to be amusing.

Instead of being racist, these ethnic names draw attention to the fact that many popular, beloved foods in America originated in other countries, thus paying tribute to their country of origin and highlighting the fact that immigrants have contributed to the enrichment and expansion of our culinary repertoire and gustatory pleasure. In truth, American cuisine is a “melting pot,” or smorgasbord, of foods from all over the world.

Are these titles any more ethnic or offensive than Polish sausage, English muffins or German chocolate cake, to name a few? Or will there be another demand to also change these names?

It’s all about political correctness.

Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, Teddy Roosevelt, FDR all made mistakes but they were the guiding lights that made the country great. John Muir did impact the way we treat the environment.  Elon Musk has lots of problems but he also pushed the electric car market into prominence. 

Try focusing on that.