Food, Inc

Any small farmer or food enthusiast could tell you that a food revolution is happening, but until a few days ago, its force was still an undertow--you could feel it but it seemed invisible compared to the world of conventional agriculture. The waters are quickly changing, however, and with the force of Oprah now behind it, this food revolution is gaining momentum and rising up to be a tidal wave (I hope)! Last week, Oprah showed clips of the documentary Food, Inc.,and told her audience "I believe you have a right to know where your food is coming from." In order to spread the word, Oprah made a deal with Amazon.com to sell Food, Inc. for the price of 9.99 for a limited time.

I also believe you have a right to know where your food comes from, and that is one reason why I work at the Green Mountain Girls Farm; I value the intimacy that comes with raising and growing my food, not only because it is delicious, but because it nurtures a strong community between the farmer, the consumer, and the land. What's more, I have never seen people so excited as the farm share members are when they come each Thursday to pick up the week's supplies, and their excitement and appreciation makes the work of cultivation and caring for the animals that much sweeter.

Even if you don't work on a farm, it is important to be close to your food for the simple reason that food sustains you, not only physically but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as well. If that sounds a little out there, just think of your state of being after eating a healthy, balanced meal made with whole foods versus one made predominately of processed, packaged foods. I know I feel lighter, more energized, and happier. As for Oprah, she says, "for me, it boils down to making more conscious food decisions."

Oprah talked with Michael Pollen about the movie, and about his new book Food Rules, which outlines simple rules to follow that will ensure you are eating good, real food. "Getting out of the supermarket when we can is a very important part of learning where your food comes from," Pollen said. "Ask the farmer."

It's okay if you don't go rushing out to find the nearest farmer after you read this. In fact, it's okay if you don't find a farmer at all, but you should know where your food comes from. Watch Food, Inc. and decide what kind of food you want to eat.