Chew On This: Everything You Don’t Want To Know About Fast Food
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Book Brief
304
Book • Nonfiction
•
EducationVarious • 2000s
•
Sociology•
Education2006
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Adult
10-14 years
1110L
Super Short Summary
Chew On This by Charles Wilson and Eric Schlosser reveals the extensive impact of the fast food industry on both individual health and global food cultures. It explores how the industry’s rise, driven by pioneers like the McDonald brothers and Ray Kroc, capitalized on automobile culture and targeted children's brand loyalty. The book examines low-wage labor, the production of standardized food, corporate influence in schools, exploitative meat production, the obesity crisis, and the global spread of American fast food values. Sensitive topics such as inhumane slaughterhouse conditions, child-targeted advertising, and severe health consequences are discussed.
Informative
Challenging
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
5,711 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Chew On This by Charles Wilson and Eric Schlosser is lauded for its engaging and informative exposé on the fast food industry. Praised for its accessible writing and compelling facts, the book effectively raises awareness about dietary choices. However, some critics note that it can be overly didactic and occasionally lacks depth in analysis. Overall, it is a thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Chew On This?
Readers who enjoy Chew On This by Charles Wilson and Eric Schlosser are typically interested in food industry insights, health, and social issues related to fast food. Fans of Schlosser’s Fast Food Nation or Michael Pollan’s The Omnivore’s Dilemma would appreciate the book's investigative style and focus on critical food-related themes.
5,711 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
A maverick entrepreneur who transformed the McDonald's name into a global empire. Known for his passionate commitment to standardization and child-friendliness, he expanded the franchise model far beyond the McDonald brothers' original vision.
An influential figure whose synergy-driven business model served as an inspiration to Ray Kroc. Renowned for his innovation in children's entertainment and attachment of merchandise to films, Disney is compared to leaders in the fast food industry.
The Idaho "great potato baron" who pioneered the frozen potato fry, meeting Ray Kroc and playing a significant role in McDonald's success. He became wealthy by targeting fast food chains with his product, profoundly impacting the industry.
A West Virginia teenager who works at McDonald's, representing the large number of American high-schoolers in the fast food workforce. Her challenges reflect the industry's reliance on part-time, low-paid employees.
A young woman from Colorado Springs representing ranchers who live in harmony with nature while rearing cattle. Her family's traditional lifestyle is contrasted with the industrial cattle production required by McDonald's.
A 16-year-old from Illinois facing the consequences of obesity, influenced by his frequent fast food consumption. His story highlights the health impacts of fast food on young people.
A 12-year-old Blackfoot Alaskan with strong opinions on junk food and soft drinks, taking a stand against the easy availability of sugary drinks in schools. She is noted for her activism and impact within her community.
304
Book • Nonfiction
•
EducationVarious • 2000s
•
Sociology•
Education2006
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Adult
10-14 years
1110L
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