Chef Michael Feker Calls for Honest Conversation on Tariffs, Food Policy and Small Business Strain

MILWAUKEE, Wis., (May 6, 2025) — As new federal tariff policies and proposed food system reforms dominate national headlines, prominent Milwaukee chef Michael Feker is urging policymakers and the public to take a closer look at how these large-scale decisions are quietly—and significantly—impacting local restaurants and small businesses.

Chef Feker, known for his leadership in Milwaukee’s restaurant community and frequent appearances on Fox 6 and other media outlets, is ready to speak to out about what he calls a “ripple effect” hitting small business owners from both ends: shrinking consumer spending due to economic uncertainty and conflicting federal food and health policies that undermine reform efforts.

“When people see their savings drop, they cut dining out first. But that choice affects a whole ecosystem: suppliers, servers, line cooks, even the farmer down the road,” said Chef Feker. “We need to stop pretending that Wall Street numbers are the only indicator of economic health. Local restaurants are a frontline barometer, and right now, they’re under pressure.”

At the same time, Chef is questioning the administration’s proposed food policy reforms, which he says send mixed signals. “You can’t promote healthier, more transparent nutrition while slashing billions from the departments that regulate and protect our food,” he said. “That’s not reform.”

Chef Feker emphasizes that true change is possible but only with incentives and infrastructure that support small operators, not just big corporations. “If you give the small guy a reason to make better choices, they will. But they can’t do it alone.”

He is inviting local media to have a broader conversation about how national policies intersect with culinary innovation, public health and the survival of Main Street businesses.

Chef Feker is available for interviews and on-air discussion, bringing data, real-time experience and a unique culinary lens to this urgent conversation.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.