Discover These Must-Watch Documentaries: Food Inc., Food Inc. 2, and Eating for Tomorrow
Given my lifestyle is so active, you might think I don’t sit still long enough to watch movies. But there are some movies I simply cannot refuse. They have to be really good/worth my time. Occasionally I’ll hunker down to watch a good espionage or corruption film, or a great Marvel movie, or even an action thriller. And while I don’t usually watch horror films, I watched Food Inc., recently and although it’s a documentary, I would categorize this film in the horror genre. When you watch it, you’ll understand why.
It was startling to say the least. The film was released in 2008 yet is just as relevant today as it was then. It’s directed by Robert Kenner, and is generally available online on platforms such as Prime Video, Apple, YouTube, Google Play and so on.
The movie offers a startling glimpse into America’s corporate-controlled food industry. It’s touted as an “unflattering look inside America’s corporate controlled food industry.” The film’s portrayal of industrial farming practices—especially the use of antibiotics and hormones in animals to meet the high demand for meat and dairy—is nothing short of appalling. The conditions, treatment, and diseases these animals endure are shocking, to say the least. And knowing that we then eat these animals, and their hormones, antibiotics and disease is horrific.
To call that movie “unflattering” is an understatement. The practices used by our farming and agricultural industries (and condoned by our government(s) is downright diabolical! While I did understand the use of harmful chemicals on our crops and the use of antibiotics and hormones on farm animals, as if that wasn’t bad enough, I had no idea of what was taking place in raising and the production of the animal products we consume. The conditions, treatment, and disease of the animals is deplorable! And as an over the top animal lover it breaks my heart.
It’s easy to overlook these issues when the background practices are not right in front of us. Let’s face it, it doesn’t take much effort to go to the grocery store and pick up a pound of ground beef without much consideration to how that meat got there. And even if you do have a thought or two of how the meat got there, many people might think or say, “Oh, poor chicken,” or “Poor fish!” as they enjoy their drum stick or salmon dinner. We humans love our meat and often crave it. I understand that because I used to feel the same way. But after watching Food Inc., was an eye opener to say the least. Through that film, I realized I was ignoring the harsh realities of the animal food industry—realities that affect not only our health but also the environment and the well-being of countless animals.
This eye-opening experience led me to drastically reduce my consumption of animal products over the years, including meat (beef, pork, chicken, turkey, and fish) and dairy (milk, yogurt, cheese, eggs). It hasn’t been easy, especially growing up in a culture where meat is almost always the centerpiece of our daily meals and dairy is touted as essential for strong bones and teeth. It’s simply NOT TRUE. Going against what I had learned over my lifetime was tough. Challenging beliefs in any aspect of life is always hard work, and trying to become vegan has been no exception.
I fully admit that I’m not 100% there yet. But I’m proud of the significant changes I’ve made. I’ve eliminated meat from my diet completely and I have reduced dairy to a minimum. This pursuit is ongoing, and I’m committed to having a healthier body and greater longevity while supporting a more ethical and sustainable food system. Heck, if a food addict like me can overcome these habits and beliefs, so can you!
There’s now a sequel to Food Inc., called Food Inc. 2: Back for Seconds, released in early 2024 and available on Prime, Apple, Google Play, and YouTube. This film dives even deeper into the issues raised in the first documentary, offering more insight into the impact of our food choices.
Additionally, another new movie is just being released now, and I highly recommend watching it. Eating for Tomorrow, produced and directed by Otto Brockway and his brother is so powerful! And for the next few days, the Food Revolution Network is hosting the Director’s Cut Global Premiere. To access it, go to https://earth.foodrevolution.org and sign up with your email address. This documentary not only highlights the health benefits of a plant-based diet but also explores the global environmental issues at stake. By shifting away from animal products, we can improve our health and create a more sustainable future for generations to come. (If it’s not available at the link above by the time you read this, just Google it and I’m sure you’ll find it. It’s worth the effort.)
Let’s not bury our heads in the sand anymore—these issues are real, and they affect each and every one of us. It’s time for all of us to step-up and take responsibility as individuals and as a collective, and not only watch these powerful documentaries, but make choices that protect our planet and lead to a healthier, more sustainable future.
These documentaries changed my thinking around my food and how I fuel my body, and maybe they can inspire you too?
Interested in learning more about my health journey that resulted in a 140 pound weight loss? I wrote a book to help you on YOUR journey. For more information click HERE.