In Defense of Food

Just finished reading 'In Defense of Food' by Michael Pollan. I must say that since I am a vegan and have done a lot of reading about the state of our food supply and its affect on our environment, health and animal welfare. So, a lot of the info in the book was just an affirmation of what I know and am doing regarding what I put in my mouth. What I did find very interesting was the emphasis in the book on the processed substances that pass as food in the grocery store. When I chose things to eat I think I was already screening out over processed and food filled with extraneous non-food like ingredients. However, it helped to encourage me to kick it up a notch. I have undertaken a more careful examination of the ingredient list to not only screen for meat, dairy and egg, but also for wholesome and a short list of ingredients. It has also encouraged me to use whole foods in the items that I cook. In fact, last night I made a pan of potatoes, black beans, red peppers, onions, couscous, roasted tomatoes, tomato sauce and basil. The potatoes, red peppers and tomatoes were fresh from the farmer's market. I roasted them all myself and the basil was from my own garden. The other ingredients I used that were purchased in a jar or can had very few ingredients. The tomato sauce was a product from a local restauranteur. This was very delicious (especially the basil, of course). I encourage anyone to read this book, because it really makes you think about the ingredients at a very comprehensive level. I have started checking out the ingredients even for items that I know I will never buy and it is quite interesting how many products include a litany of unappetizing ingredients. I think those in the food production business who anticipate that the consumer is going to be demanding better products in the future will find a way to be successful and provide good healthy food to the consumers. In the meantime, I will keep reading those labels and enjoying 'food'.