In my last column, I supplied you, the readers, with a selection of no-cook recipes for kids of all ages to make with the intention of contributing to family meal preparation. Getting kids involved with food prep not only helps to create a special bonding time, but also to generate a sense of pride and anticipation of mealtime.

In response to this column, an e-mail with, what I found to be, disturbing content was sent to the editor of one of the publications I write for. The main body of the e-mail was as follows:

"I was so excited to flip the page this morning to read Chef Dez's article on getting the kids involved in health and cooking. However, I'm at a loss for words after seeing the sweet & sour recipe calling for golden corn syrup, among sugar and mayo in the other recipes. In 2011 and with all the knowledge about the health dangers of ingredients like corn syrup, I cannot believe Chef Dez is contributing to the childhood obesity epidemic."

The person that sent this e-mail also said "I don't want this message printed in the paper; it's unnecessary" so I will leave them anonymous, but I do feel this needs to be addressed and responded to.

First of all this column the individual is referring to was in no shape or form, created to focus on "health." Nowhere does it state this. Also, for the record, my title is Chef; not Dietician, Nutritionist, or even Doctor. This does not mean I am incapable of creating healthy recipes, but I chose to have a different focus for this particular column as mentioned. To go to the lengths of suggesting that I am contributing to the childhood obesity epidemic is ludicrous.

If parents can't step up to the plate themselves and practice moderation without me holding their hands, they've got a bigger problem than the recipes I voluntarily provide to them in my column. I am merely making suggestions to give people alternatives to the store bought; preservative laden bottled junk they may be buying in the first place. I find it sad when people don't take responsibility for their own actions. As a Chef, while some of my food may contain some ingredients that are not the epitome of heath food, it is made fresh and from scratch. Some people feel a need to blame someone else for their problems; it's a sad truth in our society of quick fixes and instant gratification.

I am the father of four beautiful and healthy children (none of whom have weight problems) and eating a balanced diet is of utmost importance with our day to day meals. We also treat food as a celebration however, and make sure that we interject with dishes that are considered splurges that are in no means meant to be eaten on a regular basis. This is a big part of what parenting is about. When I am writing a column of this nature, I am also assuming that parents can make these types of decisions for themselves as well.

On a positive note, I do commend this writer on the ability to recognize these ingredients as items of concern to them. This alone proves that they are educated in food and shows that they probably provide balanced diets for their children. If items in a recipe you use are a concern, try swapping them out for a healthy alternative. For example use honey rather than corn syrup or olive oil based mayonnaise instead of regular. Recipes are not written in stone; they are opportunities for you to practice creativity.

If you have ever had the opportunity to get to know me through my cooking classes or show performances, you will also know that I have a big heart and good intentions. It is because of you that I have had so much success in what I do and I am so grateful. Let's just keep everything in perspective.

Thank you and happy cooking...

Send your food/cooking questions to dez@chefdez.com or P.O. Box 2674, Abbotsford, BC V2T 6R4

Chef Dez is a Food Columnist, Culinary Instructor & Cooking Show Performer. Visit him at www.chefdez.com

Next "Chef Dez on Cooking" column will appear August 5, 2011.