Farmer transforms into food specialist

Huang Guosheng, a farmer who shot to fame after being featured in one episode of A Bite of China, the food documentary, has signed a contract with Beijing-based Xi Bei Northwest Dishes to be the restaurant's food specialist.

The 59-year-old, who makes and sells yellow steamed buns with his wife in Suide county, Shaanxi province, has recently created an Internet buzz after news that he was approached by Jia Guolong, the owner of Xi Bei, to join the restaurant.

Many netizens call Huang a victim of "commercial abduction" and condemn Jia's move.

Meanwhile, Jia admits the move is a publicity stunt but insists that his intentions are good - he wants Huang to have a better life.

Huang says he has thought through his decision. "I'm looking forward to promoting folk food from the Northwest Chinese countryside and I enjoy the change in my life," Huang says.

According to the contract, Huang will train chefs at Xi Bei's outlets to make yellow steamed buns, which will be sold in August at the restaurant for 3 yuan (47 cents) each.