F.B.E. IV (Documentary)
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, February 7th, 2011
Are you hungry for a change? That is the primary question the movie Food Inc. poses, while shining a bright light on modern agriculture. Food-borne illnesses and recalls have become far too common in our society. Farmers are constantly being disrespected by greedy and impatient corporations. It makes no economical sense to buy organic food anymore, but we must take a stand. These companies that sell us our food must be held accountable. They will change at some point if they are forced to. We have the purchasing power to make that happen in the future.
Theatrically released in June of 2009, Food Inc. was so critically acclaimed that it received an Oscar nomination last year. Director Robert Kenner devoted six years of his life researching a widespread problem in order to raise awareness in his film. It explores the food industry’s detrimental effects on our environment and health. He interviews those who are trying to reform an industry where monopolies, political ties, illegal activity, and outbreaks of Salmonella and E. coli are becoming more commonplace. All of which is made possible by the government, who subsidizes crops like corn. Most of what you will find in grocery stores is re-engineered corn starch. Freedom of speech and choice are now more at risk than they ever were before in this country.
This movie is not really for the faint of heart, especially when the meat industry is explored at length. You will learn that ignorance is not necessarily always bliss. Knowledge is power, and enlightened consumers can make a difference. Support the brands that go the extra mile to do the right thing. We cast our vote for them in a sense every time we purchase their products. Stonyfield Farms is one of the companies that Kenner profiles, but there are many others. Chipotle prides itself on the way their meat was raised, and some locations actually screened the movie last year. Food with integrity should be everyone’s slogan. Let’s make it happen.
Below is the trailer, courtesy of YouTube. Netflix subscribers can instantly stream it online.
-Ryan Robertson
Tags: documentary, Food & Beverage Entertainment, Food Inc., Gut Check, Netflix