Sharona – I think he’s right, but I don’t think it means we should simply give up on the politicians. Despite the stereotype that surrounds them, they’re still people like us, and the more we can make them realize that their own health and the health of their families are at stake, perhaps they will begin to listen more. In addition, even though many politicians are influenced by corporate lobbying, I think there’s only a certain extent to which many of them will act in opposition to reasonable public opinion.

I absolutely agree that the best way to make a difference is by making informed purchasing decisions. Industry will only produce what people are willing to buy. The next best thing is to spread awareness and ask your friends to do the same.

Voting doesn’t seem to mean much. Money talks..vote with your wallet! Support the businesses that have your best interest and health in mind.

Yes, it’s a shame how much influence big business has on our government. What baffles me is why these executives and politicians don’t recognize that their decisions are not only hurting the general populations, but also themselves, their children, and their grandchildren. I guess it’s no different than the average person who simply doesn’t see the value in taking good care of themselves.

I agree that it would be nice to see more grounded and well informed individuals make their way into Congress, and I’m sure there must already be some, but they unfortunately have to fight the system that’s currently in place which makes it much harder for them to survive.

Sadly many of our representatives “serve and protect” manufactured food companies. Washington causes the problems through poor legislation-(they are so well connected with Monsanto and the like). What is good for Monsanto is bad for our food.

As we know, Congress does not read the legislation they propose or pass. And what they pass ALWAYS favors big, agri-business, processed food manufacturers. They have proposed many more restrictions on small family farmers-extra cost and paperwork-to drive the small family farmer out of business. Congress is so out of touch with “main street” America.

I wish WE THE PEOPLE would start sending some folks to Congress that actually represent and CARE about Main Street USA. Consumers need to become educated about REAL food, (what it is and ISN”T) and follow the proposed legislation that obviously benefits big business and not their small family farmer. We all need to be writing and calling our representatives about this. It’s time for the folks to do some homework, keep an eye on their “representatives” and when those representatives support the wrong issues, FIRE THEM!

Beth – Wow, that’s great! I would definitely feel privileged to live that close to Polyface and be able to participate in their buying club. I’m sure their grass fed beef is excellent. Let us know how you like it.

Kaizan – Exactly! We’re making these decisions multiple times every single day. Even for those who have the shortsighted opinion that their choices won’t have an impact on industry, they certainly will have an impact on their health.

meatlessmama – Yes, everyone who eats food needs to see this movie! Fully respecting your choice to not eat meat, I’d like to add to your comment that it’s still possible to support sustainable farming and fight animal cruelty without being a vegetarian. I just wanted to point that out since some people think it’s either factory farmed meat or nothing and don’t realize that there are ethical and responsible farmers like Joel Salatin to buy meat from. Granted, some people still find fault with the slaughtering of livestock no matter how well they’re raised, and they have every right to feel that way, but it’s important to realize that there’s more than one choice.

Andrea – I definitely think it’s worth the price of admission and I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. If you decide to see it, let us know what you think!

Thanks for pointing out Dr. Briffa’s blog. It looks interesting and I’ll be sure to check it out in more detail. I’ve thought about listing references at the end of articles, but instead have opted to provide links directly in the article where appropriate. Much of what I write about is inspired by books and I frequently provide links and encourage people to read them. I even wrote an article about the importance of reading and included a list of book recommendations.

I also wanted to refer you to another great blog that I frequent just as much as this one. You and he share a lot of the same type of insights. I also noticed that at the bottom of all of his posts he lists references. I thought that was a good idea, in case the reader (and those in doubt!) would like to get more information on the topic. Just a suggestion.: )

Other than that, keep up the great articles!!

You are so right. We have so much power in every decision we make at the supermarket about what food we buy.