In nod to local culture, New York makes yogurt official state snack
New York (dpa) - Yogurt is now the official snack of New York state under a measure signed Wednesday into law.
Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the legislation, fulfilling the wishes of fourth graders who suggested New York, which leads the United States in yogurt production, designate the dairy food as its official snack.
The idea prompted state lawmakers to debate the measure, which then made them the brunt of late-night comedians. The 45-minute debate was mocked by television hosts David Letterman and Jon Stewart, after lawmakers refused to designate potato chips or pretzels as state snacks.
New York produced 336 million kilograms in 2013, or 15.7 per cent of total US yogurt production, and dairy manufacturers employed nearly 9,500 people in the state.
A handful of other states have designated official snacks – typically linked to local cuisine or products - including popcorn in Illinois and tortilla chips and salsa in Texas.
