From time to time questions arise concerning the common or usual names to be used in the labeling of two distinct articles of food, both called artichokes. One such article is thistle-like herb (Cynara scolymus), sometimes called globe artichoke, cultivated for its flower buds. This is the artichoke referred to by the standard of identity (21 CFR 155.200, *Certain other* canned vegetables). Trade Correspondence 345, December l940, in discussing the question of common or usual names, stated that the "artichoke most familiar to the consuming public is the undeveloped blossom of the leafy artichoke plant, which is commonly and usually referred to simply as 'artichoke'."
The other type of artichoke is called Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) and belongs to the sunflower family. It is widely cultivated for its tuber which is used as a vegetable directly, in pickles and relishes, and as a source of inulin used in the manufacture of fructose. TC 345 stated that this should be designated as "Jerusalem artichoke."
To minimize confusion in the labeling of foods, the unqualified term "artichoke" should be used as the common or usual name for the flower buds of the globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus).
The term "Jerusalem artichoke" should be used as the common or usual name for the tuber (Helianthus tuberosus).
*Material between asterisks is new or revised.*