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Beijing to Standardize English Names of Food

Sautéed diced chicken with peanuts and chilli (gongbao jiding, 宫爆鸡丁) and erguotou (二锅头) are among terms for Chinese food and drink being scrutinized by the Beijing Speaks Foreign Languages programme in the run up to the 2008 Olympic Games. Beijing plans to standardize the English names of all its dishes and drinks to make it more convenient for visitors to Beijing during the Games. By the end of January 2007, all the dishes and drinks served by the city’s restaurants will have “standardized” English names, according to the Beijing Speaks Foreign Languages Programme, a government-sponsored organization that promotes the proper use of English among Beijing residents. “We welcome public participation and suggestions,” a newspaper quoted the organization as saying. The organization said it hopes the move will help reduce the confusion and inconvenience caused by the ambiguous English names that are used on menus in the municipality’s bars and restaurants.