If you’re anything like me, you probably enjoy the convenience of fast food. You just pull up, place your order, and voila! You get a complete meal without having to step out of your car. However, despite its convenience, fast food has negative effects on people’s health, is cruel to animals, and poses risks for meat processing workers. Considering all these factors, we must contemplate whether the accessibility and popularity of fast food truly serve the best interests of our country.
The affordability and convenience of fast food have contributed to the obesity problem in America. Many people overindulge in fast food due to its easy accessibility. Americans often cite lack of time as a reason for relying on fast food instead of healthier options. However, most fast food choices have negative effects on long-term health, making them a significant factor in obesity. It is crucial to recognize that obesity is not just about appearance but also poses serious health risks. In fact, being overweight doubles the likelihood of premature death compared to those with average weight.
Obesity is linked to various severe medical conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, and respiratory problems like sleep apnea. It has become a nationwide epidemic in the United States. According to Schlosser’s book F-ast Food Nation [sic], more than half of American adults and approximately one-quarter of American children are now categorized as overweight or obese. Schlosser notes that no other country has ever witnessed such rapid weight gain throughout history. He also highlights the cruel treatment of animals involved in fast food production. In his book, Schlosser delves into the daily operations of slaughterhouses where about 50,000 cattle are slaughtered each day. He vividly describes the different tasks performed to convert a steer into packaged meat and particularly emphasizes the gruesome nature of roles like “sticker” and “knocker.” Every ten seconds, the sticker severs a steer’s carotid artery.
The knocker utilizes a captive bolt stunner to shoot cattle in the head upon arrival at the slaughterhouse, instantly stunning them. According to Schlosser’s quote on a website, “The animals go from being powerful and imposing one moment to being gone in an instant, suspended from a rail, ready for carving.” Additionally, apart from the cruel treatment of animals, mass food production also poses risks for employees who work in unsanitary slaughterhouses. The faster the cattle are processed, the more profitable it becomes for the slaughterhouse; however, this also increases the chances of injuries occurring to workers. These workers face immense pressure to perform tasks rapidly, even if it means risking infections and physical harm. Many of these injuries remain unreported as injured workers are viewed as financial burdens. They may be assigned easier duties while they recover or sent back to their home country before returning to work in the US. Hence, if you share my concerns regarding fast food consumption, then you comprehend its detrimental impact on our health, animal welfare, and safety of those employed in hazardous slaughterhouses.
Despite the convenience and affordability of fast food, there are alternative options that are just as quick and often cheaper, while also being healthier. Experts in healthcare and nutrition have long recommended increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables, and grains. One can easily accomplish this by exploring the produce and cereal sections at nearby grocery stores. Look for items that have low fat and sodium content to aid in weight loss, save money, enhance well-being, and boost self-confidence. While it is acceptable to occasionally indulge in a fast food burger, it is crucial to avoid making it a daily habit!
