Why Ina Garten Passed On Working With The United Nations

Ina Garten is one impressive person, even with all of her culinary achievements aside. Before Garten was known as the "Barefoot Contessa" or even owned the gourmet grocery store by the same name, she had a government job. She worked her way up in the White House from her starting position as an aid to becoming a budget analyst for nuclear policy, under both former president Gerald Ford and former president Jimmy Carter (via The Muse). Clearly, Garten had a proclivity for her work. 

However, despite this success, at just 30 years old she left the White House to pursue her dream of working in the culinary world. With a history of such high-profile work as being an analyst in the White House, it might make perfect sense for many of Garten's fans that she would make a wonderful addition to the United Nations. But when the Food Network spoke with Garten about partnerships she had turned down, the U.N. was definitely towards the top of the list.

She would much rather make people happy with food

When the Food Network asked Garten about her refusal to accept endorsement offers, she explained that she has had far more offers than she would ever actually take. She explained, "I've been asked to do everything from dining tables to clothing — who would want me to do their clothing? — to soy sauce." But food, linens and clothes aside, the cooking host really was asked to join the United Nations. 

"I was asked to do something with the United Nations," Garten said. "I mean, solve the problems of the world? Yeah, I'll make everyone chicken pot pie and they'll be happy!" Clearly, the television personality has found her calling with her cooking. From her first gourmet grocery store to her many successful cookbooks, she has certainly found success doing what she loves. And even if it won't solve the world's problems, it has definitely made her many fans and followers happy.