talbotlucas.org: a word to the wise is sufficient

After seeing last night's post on Slow Food, one of our regular readers mentioned Fast Food Nation to Terrence, and I realized that this should have been among the items listed in my "more of interest" section even though it's a book and not a web feature.

My father and I both found this a fascinating read, and it's full of information that gives one pause. Although it was decried by the fast food industry and those who trumpet "consumer freedom," I don't recall any organization or corporation coming forward to dispute Schlosser's findings. (If one of you knows something to the contrary, let me know.) Maria Russo, in her review of the book for salon.com, opened with a startling fact, one of dozens that Schlosser reveals: "Americans spend more money on fast food than on higher education, personal computers, computer software, or new cars." That alone may qualify this as required reading.

Before reading Schlosser's book I didn't know the extent of McDonald's real estate holdings (which make the hamburgers seem like a side business), or that it's one of the top sellers/distributors of toys in the country. (All those Happy Meals add up, I guess.) Or how fast food operators manage to evade/ignore labor laws, especially those relating to the hours young workers may spend on the job while in school. Schlosser also provides information on industry research relating to marketing messages aimed at the very young, and how industry members secure federal educational funds while aiming for zero training in the workplace, a direct conflict with the terms under which such funds are disbursed.

Fast Food Nation has been out in paperback for some time, making it an easy-on-the-pocketbook addition to your bookshelves. For those of you who'd like a little more info before you buy, a few sources: an interview with Schlosser on The Atlantic's site; and a list of links to reviews, contrary opinions, and related material collected by The Complete Review.