Gifford was best known for founding
Oldways, a non-profit organization aimed at fighting obesity and teaching healthy eating habits through traditional cooking practices and diets. Their message has resonated with many in the restaurant industry who take pride in preparing sensible, properly executed cuisine.
He was 71 and lived in Cambridge Massachusetts.
In related news, the creator of NYC's iconic "We are happy to serve you" ("Anthora") coffee cups recently passed away at the age of 87.
UPDATE: Richard LaMotta, the creator of the
"chipwich" passed away on May 11th.