The peeps won't ask for food until they are almost starving, and sometimes even then they won't ask. Feed them one item (fruit or vegetable) each day, whether they ask or not. Of course, don't feed the rude ones you are trying to starve.

I go around every morning and give each peep a veggie right before I fulfill their favor. I have to remember to feed my bestie and anyone whose favor I cannot grant.

The basement is just my active imagination painting a rich portrait of the Mayor's life and house. I keep the food in my bookcase storage.