I remember as an English major at BYU, I would start my school year at the bookstore. I would fill my basket (if I was lucky enough to get one) with stacks and stacks of books. My record one semester was forty. I kid you not. I did a lot of reading. And those were just the books I had to purchase. And even though I was loaded down I couldn't help but notice this book on the shelf. Another class was reading it. I was always intrigued. I wanted to know what was "the dark side of the all-american meal"? Sadly, I never carved out the time to read it, but always promised myself I would. That was many years ago.
I know it took me way too long, but I finally finished reading Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser. Wow. I am glad this one had me intrigued. I need to read this.This book came along way before The Omnivore's Dilemma or any of the other recent influential writings on modern food and the food movement. There were all sorts of things that I knew nothing about. As I read their was one thing that just keep popping into my head: D & C 89:4.
consequence of aevils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts
of bconspiring men in the last days, I have cwarned you, and forewarn you
It is amazing. Really truly amazing what people have done and what people continue to get away with. Unethical practices that I honestly believe show no respect for the earth, animals or people God has made. As I read about them I am certain that these were some of the "evil designs" and the "consipiring" that we have been warned of. Does that mean that all fast food is bad. Heck, no.
I have yet to lose my faith in Chipotle. And I never wish to.
One of the over arching problems that Schlosser examined in the book was the slaughterhouse industry. Oh, holy. I don't want to delve in, but there was so, so much. Yes, strides have been made to improve things- but unfortunately what has spurred them has been recalls. Remember Jack-in-the-Box ten years ago?
The book lays out the whole history of franchises and who the entire industry has come about. Fascinating, really. It is sad to see some of the consequences it has brought about. But I don't have to just wallow in my feeling and surrender. I came away with the sense that agency still exists and that I have a vote in the food system. In fact, I vote at least three times a day with my fork. And I know which way I'm voting.
If want to know more I highly recommend the book. And if you live local let me know and I'll give you my copy.
So have you read the book? What were your thoughts?
What do you think "evil designs" and "conspiring" relate to?
I haven't read this book but we did watch the show (movie) in which the man eats every meal at McD's and documents his health. It was amazing. We have also watched Food Inc. and my son lost his appetite for meat.
ReplyDeleteI have read Omnivore's dilemma and In Defense of Food. Both were informative and supportive of the Word of Wisdom.
Please pass the peas.