Janelle Sims Blog #5

This week’s reading in “Omnivore’s Dilemma” mimics the book title while primarily addressing the “normal” American diet and controversy of eating animal flesh. Pollan describes the first tool for food consumption is taste. He states that the overbearing influence of taste is so important, that humans do not always chose the more health-wise dinner option and merely let their stomachs do the talking, rather than feeding their physiological well-being.
Although not written by Pollan, an excerpt from Harvey Levenstein is found on page 300 that I challenge. Levenstein writes: “that taste is not a true guide to what should be eaten; that one should not simply eat what one enjoys; that the important components of food cannot be seen or tasted, but are discernable only in scientific laboratories; and the experimental science has produced rules of nutrition that will prevent illness and encourage longevity.” Then, in the following paragraph, it seems to me, that Pollan suggests that other countries solely eat nutritional entrees with minimal pleasuring tastes; while, America indulges only on greasy foods. With the continual fad of organic dining, I do not entirely disagree with this statement; rather, I feel that it is an extreme accusation on the nation. Though my travels abroad are limited, the statement saying that taste is a minor detail is false. In fact, a majority of the food I have had on vacations has been delicacies in my book.
Also, grease, fats, and sugars are present in entrees across the globe. Blaming America in this manner is too negative and, therefore, not effective. This excerpt reminds me of the American Heart Association telling the nation that the average adult should exercise for an hour a day. With that much of a time commitment, most adults do not even attempt going for a walk because they feel like it is unattainable. Whereas, the initial amount of 3 times a week seems more realistic, so more people put forth the effort.
Giving the needed information for a healthier future is one thing, but diminishing the nation’s state in the process is another.