Pollan: In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto

Last evening I caught this lecture on CSPAN2 given by controversial writer Michael Pollan about his recent book “In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto.” Pollan discusses the American diet that emerged after World War II, which may the leading contributor of many health problems we have.

Much of what I liked about the discussion was based on common sense. For instance buy and eat the food that is sold on the parameter of your market. Generally this is produce, meats, and dairy; and stay away from processes foods found in the center aisles. Easy enough; or rather than buying prepackaged processed foods, just buy the raw ingredients and make it yourself. So instead of buying that “Egg McMuffin,” just buy the eggs, muffins, ham, and cheese and make it yourself. You’ll probably save yourself some money and enjoy the food more.

I have read many of Pollan’s articles and I would say that many of his perspectives would be at home in Athens Ohio[1] rather than northern Ohio. However, what he points out and should add some balance to the great food debate is that nutritional science is very young and many of the claims being touted from many quarters are questionable. This new area of science has a lot of catching up medical sciences.

It makes sense that if we look at how we eat prior to WWII and today, the folks back then had it right; simple and hearty meals. I would have to say that’s pretty much how the rural folks down here in southeastern Ohio have always eaten. Check out the video if you have the chance.

Click here for the video.

Time: approximately 60 min
[1] For folks outside of Ohio, Athens is generally considered a tree hugger area.