Response to Omnivore's Dilemma

Few books have changed the way I think about the world so much as Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan. Every piece of food I eat is a representation of some quantity of pesticides, oil and carbon emission, and I am voting with every bite I take.

On the one hand, this makes me feel empowered. What I chose to eat can affect the foods that are offered, and companies do respond to consumer demand.

On the other hand, I have never felt like a process so central to my well being was so out of my control. What goes into making my food is hidden away very securely.

I was definitely glad I was a vegetarian this quarter, as the movies and books we read did not want to make me eat meat, and OD was no exception. For example, I read the section where Pollan hunts the pig while eating lunch one day. If I had had any meat on my plate, I would not have been able to stomach that combination. These books, OD in particular, have convinced me that my lifestyle change was worthwhile and something I should continue.

While Pollan’s last meal, that he completely harvested himself, was impractical, I am glad he showed the full spectra of meal sources, from completely fast food to completely slow food, with some options in between. While the in between options, such as the food from Polyface Farms, seemed like the best and most practical choices, the book would not have had as much of an impact without the contrast of the other meals.

I only hope that I will be able to eat as well as this book suggests I should. I am staying on a meal plan for one more year, but after that I will have more control over where my food comes from. Also, this summer, when I am at home, I will be able to influence the types of food my mother purchases and cooks.

I think everyone should read this book, as it forces one to seriously reconsider his or her food choices. I know I will be passing it on to my friends and family, and I am hoping it will inspire them to change their lifestyle as I did. I can’t imagine how someone could read this book and not be inspired to change, if not from desire to be a good person, then from disgust with where his or her food currently comes from.