My farm is near one of Sweden’s largest producers of neurotoxin. It’s also one of the world’s most familiar brands: Absolut Vodka. I have nothing against alcohol. In fact, I’m quite fond of it.

Russ Parsons is the food editor at the Los Angeles Times. He recently wrote about the national conversation about food and farming.

Dinner parties are a delightful way to catch up with old friends, meet new people, and enjoy great food together. However, they can also be a breeding ground for awkward silences and dull ...