Real Bread at a Manufactured Price?

Re “On the Rise” (July 28): Having been raised in Europe on fresh crusty bread, which was always available in ample supply and many varieties, I observe with amazement how in this country such a basic staple as “daily bread” became an upscale, expensive item preferred by yuppies while the masses still munch on Wonder bread.

Bread in Poland or Italy was always the cheapest thing one could buy and to this day it costs less than $1 for a 1-kilogram loaf in both countries. And, yes, it is made by hand. Apparently it does not cost that much as every European baker will tell you.

Cheers to La Brea Bakery for good business sense and skillful marketing, but I hope for more competition to drive the prices down or else an average American will never find out what real bread is supposed to taste like.

PETER GEROCH

Hermosa Beach