What the Government Shutdown Means for Food & Drink

Did you like having a national government? Too bad: after Congress failed to reach a budget deal last night, the government is officially in shutdown mode. Here is what that means:

· First things first, Eater DC has a list of bars and restaurants offering shut down specials. These are both for furloughed workers and frustrated citizens.
· According to Reuters, the USDA is "mostly go[ing] dark," which means statistical reports (including, possibly, the October crop report) get put on hold until the government is back in action. Meat inspections will continue, as they are considered "essential." Bloomberg reports food inspections in general will continue, and the New York Times says winery permit processors are furloughed. Sorry wineries.
· And chef/Person of America José Andrés may have to put off becoming an official US citizen for a bit as the ceremony was scheduled for next week. No hard feelings though: he's offering free sandwiches to furloughed government employees at several of his restaurants til the shut down ends.

Be brave, get drunk, and eat sandwiches, America.

· All Congress Coverage on Eater [-E-]
· All José Andrés Coverage on Eater [-E-]