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America Quote by Michael Pollan

“Half of all broccoli grown commercially in America today is a single variety- Marathon- notable for it's high yield. The overwhelming majority of the chickens raised for meat in America are the same hybrid, the Cornish cross; more than 99 percent of turkeys are the Broad-Breasted Whites.” quote by Michael Pollan
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“Half of all broccoli grown commercially in America today is a single variety- Marathon- notable for it's high yield. The overwhelming majority of the chickens raised for meat in America are the same hybrid, the Cornish cross; more than 99 percent of turkeys are the Broad-Breasted Whites.”

Michael Pollan

About This Quote

Source Article: The Omnivore's Dilemma, Michael Pollan, 2006

Modern agriculture relies on a few high‑yield varieties, reducing genetic diversity and resilience.

In simple terms: Most US crops are genetically uniform.

Key Takeaway

Promote crop diversity and local varieties.

Themes

agriculture genetics food security industrial farming biodiversity

Mood

concerned thoughtful

Type

informative analytical

When to use this quote

  • farmers choosing heirloom seeds
  • schools teaching plant genetics
  • policy supporting seed diversity
  • consumers buying varied produce

Key Concepts

monoculture genetic bottleneck food system resilience

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does lack of diversity affect food stability?
  • What steps can individuals take to support varied crops?
A Different Perspective

Uniform crops are vulnerable to disease and climate change.

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