I don't think that you can judge a real-time one to many discussion by a snapshot in time. There are frequently very good discussions taking place.

How would you suggest such a large group as #profood have real-time discussions with so many contributors on one person's blog?

You have to join forums and BBS'. How do you find out about them in the first place? Retweeting has the benefit that followers who don't know about #profood will see the messages.

For example, if you find out about Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch and follow them, you'll then find out about #profood where you'll find out about all sorts of organizations and experts who Tweet in #profood. I have met people that I would never have otherwise met and learned things that I would never have learned from one forum, blog, or BBS.

You have to use it to 'get it.'

I don't understand why non-users are so emotional about discounting it's value.

@CulinaryHatchet