Gov’t Eco-Action Monday: Food, Inc.

Food for Thought: How Big (Bully) Business Rules the Roost(er)

According to the website for the film Food, Inc., “…filmmaker Robert Kenner lifts the veil on our nation’s food industry, exposing the highly mechanized underbelly that has been hidden from the American consumer with the consent of our government’s regulatory agencies, USDA and FDA. Our nation’s food supply is now controlled by a handful of corporations that often put profit ahead of consumer health, the livelihood of the American farmer, the safety of workers and our own environment.”

I knew I had to see this film. Viewing it after dinner (a seemingly “healthy” spinach and cheese enchilada) the other night gave me indigestion – literally and figuratively.

While I won’t ruin the film for those who haven’t seen it, I will tell you that I kept pondering the question, “How could this happen in our own country? At times I felt as though I were watching a film about a far-off society in which a mighty few dictate to – and take from – the masses. Certainly not here in the good ‘ole USA.

So you may be wondering what you can do as an individual here in the DC area. Quite a lot. If you think you are powerless against big business, think again. Your wallet speaks volumes.

Start by supporting your local farmers’ markets – of which there are an abundance in our own backyard. Granted, the options are not all organic, but supporting local farmers instead of colossal corporations sends the critical message that mass production (which often means genetically modified products and unsanitary conditions, resulting in health implications) is not acceptable. Neither is the inhumane treatment of animals or the exploitation of workers.

And of course, we can’t forget the transportation impact (both shipping the “interim” products to processing facilities and the final products to stores); buying local reduces carbon emissions immensely. For those that may not have access to farmers’ markets, try shopping at area chains such as MOM’s Organic or Yes! Markets, as they tend to carry more locally produced products.

So eat local. And get involved. Talk to your state and county representatives or visit www.takepart.com/issues/food-industry/13735 to learn more about action you can take.

Do yourself a favor and see this film. And if it doesn’t change the way you feel about food, nothing will.

Photo Credit: Flickr CC User Vampire Bear