Jamie Oliver Criticised for Partnering With Petrol Giant

TV chef, best-selling cookbook author, and troubled restaurateur, Jamie Oliver faces fresh criticism today having agreed a £5 million deal with the petrol giant and service station operator, Shell.

The Mirror reports that Oliver will “update food at Shell service stations.”

The criticism — led by Labour MP Anna McMorrin, a member who sits on the Commons’ Environmental Audit Committee — arrives as Oliver occupies a position as United Nations environmental champion.

Shell has one of the world’s top 10 largest carbon footprints.

McMorrin said that Oliver’s significant support among young people meant this sent out hte wrong message. “a lot of support from young people” sent out the wrong message.

Oliver through his representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment, specifically on the point of hypocrisy.

His restaurant group has recently made pledges to support environmental efforts. Corn straws are advertised as “Doing our bit to help the environment and cut down our plastic use.”

In 2006, the restaurant group announced plans to use wind power for the restaurants; Oliver himself has been awarded “Hero” status for his work on sustainability; and in 2009, Jamie’s American Road Trip on Channel 4 was referred to as television’s first carbon neutral series. His company, he said, was “serious” about taking measures to prevent climate change.

More soon.