3.5 Can one possibly be surprised to hear that above all money and power talks? It is apparent in almost every societal issue, that this is true. So that this is true, even in the control of the food we eat, the lack of policies that should proect us, was not a surprise, but some of this book was as we're the statistics. The loss of 1.4 cattle, hog and dairy farms in the last thirty years, didn't realize this number was so huge. Also didn't know that hedge funds were grabbing lands. That four bug grocery chains control the quality and the prices. Big corporations taking the place of individual farms, setting prices and controlling advertising. What is marketed and how to the consumer. Not at all concerned about standards, our health, our children's health, nor the long range consequences of such actions. Money is indeed king.

The bottled water market, is a scan and a very money making one at that. Even when we think we are doing the right things, buying organic foods, that may not be the case. Much of our organics, even if farmers here could supply the same, the profit margin is much larger, if they are imported from other countries. Countries were safety and health standards are not the same as ours. Hence, many of the cases of ecoli, and samonella that seem to be be on our news monthly with new recalls.

Knowing where your food is coming from is key, buying from local farms smart, but many just don't have access. Current anti trust laws little stop these corporations from grabbing more control, and don't act as though deterrent they should. The author feels that these laws need to be changed to better protect the consumer, and that communication between consumers and local farms need to be strengthened. Flexitarian is the word for those who are incorporating meatless days into their meal planning. Not only better for health but for the environment.

The author presents much information, even graphs for comparisons. One can certainly tell where her bias is, but this doesn't mean it is wrong. In fact, after reading this, it is almost impossible not to see where we are heading, if nothing is done. Scary thoughts. Who and what are in control of feeding our families. It should be us and this book at least lets one make and informed opinion. ( )

The battle over the future of food and farming in america