I’ve read a number of books lately that were particularly interesting. One I recently finished is “The Omnivore’s Dilemma”, by Michael Pollan.
Prior to reading it I asked whether it was a modern version of something like Upton Sinclair’s “The Jungle”, and the answer was “no”. However, I think there are some common elements between the two. I have certainly had my eyes opened about many of the foods we eat, and how they are grown, processed, marketed and distributed.
For example, the author spends quite some time describing how corn has become the dominant agricultural crop in the USA, and has come to dominate our food as well, particularly in non-obvious ways. And this isn’t necessarily a good thing. I recall “corn fed beef” being viewed as a positive, whereas now “grass fed” is preferred. Now I understand better why.
The author went on perhaps too long extolling the virtues of a particular organic, sustainable farm in Virginia–one that doesn’t bring in chemical fertilizers, nor antibiotics and other drugs for the animals. It does sound quite appealing.
It is a thought provoking book, and makes me view foods with new light, and may change my shopping and eating habits a bit.
If you are still on a food-book kick, I would recommend What to Eat, by Marion Nestle. It’s very interesting and non-political.