United States Food Administration
Food Guide for War Service at Home
Prepared under the direction of the United States Food Administration in co-operation with the United States Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Education, with a preface by Herbert Hoover
"Food Guide for War Service at Home" by the United States Food Administration is a practical guide written during the early 20th century, specifically in the context of World War I. This publication serves as an educational resource aimed at promoting food conservation and efficient use of food supplies during wartime, emphasizing the necessity of supporting troops and allies abroad while managing domestic consumption. The opening of the guide outlines the dire food situation arising from the war, detailing how agricultural sectors in Europe have been ravaged and how reliance on imports has increased, especially from North America. It highlights the urgent need for careful food usage at home to ensure that sufficient resources can be sent to support Allied forces, reduce waste, and alleviate suffering in Europe. Major themes include the importance of wheat and other cereals, strategies for food conservation, and the need for public cooperation in fulfilling these wartime dietary adjustments. The urgency of the message is amplified with appeals from government officials, seeking to rally public support and engagement in food-saving practices.