Cafos Quote by Michael Pollan
““Supermarkets in Denmark have experimented with adding a second bar code to packages of meat that when scanned at a kiosk in the store brings up on a monitor images of the farm where the meat was raised, as well as detailed information on the particular animal’s genetics, feed, medications, slaughter date, etc. Most of the meat in our supermarkets simply couldn’t withstand that degree of transparency; if the bar code on the typical package of pork chops summoned images of the CAFO it came from, and information on the pig’s diet and drug regimen, who could bring themselves to buy it? Our food system depends on consumers’ not knowing much about it beyond the price disclosed by the checkout scanner. Cheapness and ignorance are mutually reinforcing.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Omnivore's Dilemma, 2006
Food transparency reveals uncomfortable truths about industrial agriculture, challenging consumer complacency.
In simple terms: Transparency shows hidden costs of cheap meat.
Key Takeaway
Demand more info, support ethical sourcing.
Themes
food
transparency
ethics
consumer awareness
Mood
thoughtful
concerned
Type
environmental
ethical
When to use this quote
- grocery shopping
- policy advocacy
- education campaigns
- restaurant sourcing
Key Concepts
industrial agriculture
food supply chain
traceability
Questions to Reflect On
- Would you pay more for fully transparent food?
- How can transparency be made affordable?
A Different Perspective
Consumers may resist due to price or habit.
