Pollan Processed Foods

To begin with, according to Pollan consumption of highly processed food is very high in America. Pollan says, “They [processed foods] contain much less water, fiber and micronutrients, and generally much more sugar and fat”(12). Pollan believes the American population does not consume enough real food; therefore, they constantly look for something to satisfy their hunger. Fiber and micronutrients in whole foods give people satisfaction after consuming them. Processed foods are significantly low in micronutrients and fiber. People do not feel satisfied after eating processed foods; consequently, they overeat the foods that negatively impact their health. Processed foods in America are sold at a minimum price, making it easier and more accessible to consume foods that are dangerous to the human’s health.

Food production in the United States has changed massively over the previous century. For instance, Joan Gussow says, “Just eat food” (Pollan 10). For Gussow “food” means whole foods such as, fruits, whole-grains, and vegetables. On the other hand, foods that were manufactured in factories are not real foods and they are known as processed foods. Nevertheless, Americans consume excessive amounts of processed foods and very little amounts of whole foods. According to Pollan, processed foods are “More fattening [and] less nutritious!” (12). Therefore, Pollan’s first principle eliminates the majority of processed foods in the American diet and guides those who utilize his principle to eat a healthy and well-rounded diet that consists of whole-foods. Moreover, previous generations of Americans did not have access to process foods; like so, they did not have to worry about eating healthy because they had no food choices other than real foods. Pollan’s first principle is an easy and practical tool to guide people to select foods that are wholesome, healthy, and minimally