The Omnivore's Dilemma: Investigating the American Food System
The book focuses on the food consumed by Americans, its nature, variety, and source. Michael Pollan decided to dive deep into the topic in his book The Omnivore's Dilemma. In the process of trying to find out more about the food Americans eat, he takes up the role of an investigative journalist. According to him, Americans think they have a variety of food to choose from when in reality they are consuming a large amount of corn. According to Michael, Americans consider Mexicans as the largest consumers of corn but in the real sense, 40% of their own diet is actually corn. He delves deep into the history of corn and how it was introduced into America.
The Four Food Chains: Understanding What Americans Eat
Michael brings out the fact that there are four food chains that explain what Americans end up eating, elaborating on each of them. The four food chains include industrial, industrial organic, local sustainable, and the hunter-gatherer food chain. The first two food chains highlight the approach taken in producing food today, while the last two focus on what was used in the past. According to him, the current methods are dangerous and have a negative impact on human health. In one instance, he focuses on the crop grown using poisonous pesticides. Genetically modified food is a big topic that he decides to shed light on as he brings out its harmful nature, although it is able to feed a huge population. Through his adventure and love for finding out details, he brings out the negative side effects that await Americans as they feed on the food they choose to feed on.
