Response to Mark's "In Defense of Foods" section 1 blog

http://mfarrelllsc100s10.blogspot.com/2010/02/response-to-in-defense-of-food-section.html#comments

In his argument, Mark remarks on Pollan’s introduction in two ways. First, he discusses how processed food has become a highly available and widely advertised product. With the destruction of foods down into nutrient form and macronutrients it has opened up the market to processed foods to dominate grocery store aisles. The choice of words in his blog, “some of the healthiest foods we can get are fresh fruits and vegetables” demonstrates how we have come to think of fruits and vegetables. What Pollan is critiquing in his introduction is exactly this mentality that processed foods compare to the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables. Pollan would argue that plants are the right choice all of the time, and it is in our best interest to stay away from the over glorified processed food section. Mark also discusses his current food habits and how they differ with his parents. He discusses how things used to be made from scratch and how the modern generation has moved away from this. I find this idea very accurate because my Mom always says to me that you are better of cooking at home and making things from scratch, the reason being you see what goes into it. As a result, you have more control and will be cautious in over indulging in highly unhealthy foods.

The second point Mark brings up is his current shopping procedure. He says it is a decision based on “best taste, brand, and cheapest price.” Although I contest I do occasionally look at the label, price is a large factor for a college student. When trying to budget on small amounts, it is much easier to eat a diet of processed foods than organic. Thus processed food gains a one up on so called “whole foods” because often, even if consumers want “whole foods”, they are simply too expensive.