Critic of Mexican Food Has Targeted Other Popular Dishes

The Center for Science in the Public Interest, directed by Michael Jacobson, over the last two decades has delighted in telling consumers about the health risks of some of the nation’s most popular foods, including buttered movie theater popcorn.

The center has analyzed and itemized ingredients, then shared the often surprising findings with consumers. Jacobson, 50, who holds a Ph.D. in microbiology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, founded the center with a partner in 1971 after working with consumer activist Ralph Nader.

Jacobson’s battles are shrewdly orchestrated: scathing but pointed studies, followed by aggressive media campaigns and, finally, behind-the-scenes, work-the-phones lobbying of officials. Besides some small private foundation grants, the center in Washington is funded largely by dues from 750,000 subscribers to its Nutrition Action Health Letter.