Food, Inc.

Food, Inc. is a disturbingly inspiring shock-umentary (documentary) on the U.S.’s current food system. It exposes how many of the foods we see today are controlled by a few major companies. It discusses the capitalist means that they go to to control the flow of those foods. It also shows the conditions in which these foods are created. One of the most disturbing things were the extent that they will go to keep most farmers under their money-fat thumbs.

If there were ever a movie that I would suggest watching, it would be this one. Why you ask?

So what is the intent of the movie? To open the our eyes to what is really going on around us in regards to what we eat. To give us a greater perspective than what we have now. Most of us know that eating fast food is “bad for us”, but watching this gives a whole knew meaning to bad.

People joke about places like Whole Foods calling it “whole paycheck”. Why would someone say this about a company like this? It’s because their food and groceries are “expensive”. I suppose the term “expensive” is a matter of perspective and definition to the person using it. Does it cost more than other super markets? Yes. What about farmer’s markets? They tend to be more expensive than common grocery stores as well.

After watching Food, Inc. you will have a greater appreciation for where that extra money is going. First would be, it is more nutritious for you and your family. Second, it is supporting either locally based farmers or farmers that have dedicated themselves to providing top-quality products. These farmers don’t do it for the benefit of more money but do it to stand behind creating a better quality of life for families through means of better quality foods.

I used to only think about the eco-friendly reasons for farmers markets, less fuel consumed in transporting foods to buyers, more organic products, supporting local farming economies which in turn support local economies. Now, I have even more reasons to shop at them. Nutrition. Health. Fighting the corporate greed that has put a strangle hold on our nation.

One of my favorite lines from the movie was “We need to change our policies so that carrots cost less than chips.” It is too true. The food industry has created a system where it is easier for poorer families to purchase low quality foods; candy, soda, chips, fast-food, etc., than it is to buy healthy ones. There seems to be a direct correlation to poor health and poor food choices and availability. This is a huge problem.

What can you get from all of this, watch the movie. Learn a little something about the foods you eat and where they come from and who it affects to get to you. Also, buy local foods from farmers markets. Try to stay away from major grocery stores as they are swarmed with these products that are controlled by the major food companies.