Warren Buffett has done a lot of good for investors. That is why so much of the financial world is celebrating his half century as an owner of Berkshire Hathaway, the textile company he has transformed into a conglomerate like no other.

But the Oracle of Omaha also has been a big help to dentists — and I would suggest that side of Mr Buffett merits consideration, too, as we take stock of the man who has made value investing a key canon of today’s capitalist creed.

One of the more intriguing themes of Mr Buffett’s career has been his big bet on the enduring appeal of sugar — from cane or corn or other sources. Although his portfolio runs the gamut from banks and insurers to railroad, manufacturing and energy companies, it includes substantial holdings in candy, ice cream, chewing gum, soft drinks and the heavily sweetened condiment that is ketchup.