Ambassador Visits French Vendors at "Fancy Food Show 2012”

See more photos of this event on Flickr.

Washington "foodies" were drawn to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center to take in the tastes and aromas of the summer 2012 Fancy Food Show. French cuisine figured prominently among 180,000 products from over 2,000 exhibitors that spanned 80 countries around the globe. The show ran from June 17 to 19, and was the 58th iteration of the culinary exhibition.

Retailers, restaurateurs and media outlets enjoyed dishes as diverse as spices and snacks, with other significant categories including cheeses, organic goods and ethnic foods. The three-day exhibition served as both specialty goods market and forum to recognize some of the world’s top delicacies.

Amb. François Delattre at the 2012 Fancy Food Show

In keeping with initiatives to support France’s agricultural activity, vendors from France brought a wide range of products to this year’s Fancy Food Show. Fourteen different French exhibitors showcased products ranging from cookies and biscuits to tapenades and vitamin waters, all capturing the joie de vivre that comes from dining à la Française. One French company even offers gourmet condiments, which according to their product descriptions are famous for their “gustatory qualities” and “inimitable flavors."

The Fancy Food Show also highlighted American vendors selling French products, with over 50 American companies bringing a selection of wines, cheeses and crêpes.

François Delattre, Ambassador of France to the United States, visited the show on June 19 , praising France’s strong showing during the food convention. “I wanted to convey the support of the French government as well as my personal support,” he said.

"I was struck by how these companies are doing well in the U.S. food market. In the global food business, France is a winning team.”

See more photos of this event on Flickr.