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Our eating habits are killing us. That's what some critics say about today's fast-paced, highly processed, gotta-have-it-now food habits. The fact that people choose convenience over questioning where and how their food got to them is dangerous. And it is leading to many health concerns, says Micheal Pollan, author of In Defense of Food.
The way people eat has changed. There's no question about that. Sitting down and eating with the family used to commonplace, even expected. But today, eating is something that people do on-the-go, while driving, watching TV, talking on the phone.
The food most people eat is highly processed with tons of packaging—which means the food is both bad for people and the environment.
Pollan explains:
Instead of food, we're consuming "edible foodlike substances" — no longer the products of nature but of food science. Many of them come packaged with health claims that should be our first clue they are anything but healthy.
In addition, the methods of mass-producing food, particularly meat, like factory farming can lead to health concerns for humans and animals alike. Plus, produce in typical grocery stores are often doused with pesticides.
Take A Stand Against Unsustainable, Unhealthy Foods
What's the answer? Trading our fast-paced eating habits for thoughtful green food habits, and questioning the way food is produced and grown. It may seem like one person can't change the whole system, but consumers can easily show where they stand through the power of the dollar. Purchasing power counts and is an excellent way to show what consumers will and will not support.
Changing eating habits can be difficult, but it can be easier to swallow when adjusted a little bit at a time. Eating habits can go greener every day by:
- Choosing food with less packaging
- Growing your own food or purchasing local food only
- Purchasing organic, pesticide free foods
- Being less wasteful and eating mindfully
- Eating foods that are grown or produced sustainably
- Try going vegetarian or flexitarian
By changing both eating and purchasing habits, people can make a difference for their own health and for the health of the planet.
Watch Focus Earth: America's Food Wars to find out more on food-related issues in America.
