Michael Pollan’s clear and digestible way of presenting information through the Omnivore’s Dilemma can easily affect one’s notions about their relationship with food. However, even with the awareness of all the unhealthy foods, it is extremely difficult to make a transition to a healthier life style due to produce prices are sky high and the fact that produce rots quickly. Last night my roommates and I decided to go to Kroger to go grocery shopping. They have the typical college student appetite. As soon as we stepped in the store, they dashed off to the soda section, and then jetted to look for any bargains on Cheeze- Its and microwaveable popcorn. Typically, I would be leading the way to get the biggest bang for my buck. But this time, I decided to let them go ahead while I sneak around to the produce isle to find something cheap and healthy. Pollan’s words were in my head.
My first impression of the produce isle was that everything is quite expensive. Tomatoes, apples, nuts, berries, and everything else on the perimeter of the store was costly. However, I decided that for once in my life, I will attempt to try a diet that consist of various vegetables, fruits and nuts. After I filled up my basket that almost looked like the Garden of Eden, I met with my roommates in the self check-out isle. Right when they saw me they laughed. One of my roommates said “Baron, after you check out, I can guarantee that you won’t have any money to have fun with.” I decided to call his bluff, which ended up being costly error on my part. Although both of my roommates carts had almost doubled the food I had, their bill was just a little over half of mine. I was shocked and felt foolish. They had food that was able to last them for months. Warm up noodles, chicken and even vegetables. My expensive produce and fruits expired within a week and then I was hungry again. That one week I had with the produce was great. I felt more light and I had more energy. However, since most college students, including myself, don’t have steady and large incomes, it is irrational to spend lots of money on produce. Produce is expensive and it expires quickly. I think I will try a healthier diet when I have a full time job, if I still heed Pollan’s words.
I feel that being introduced to the scary facts about cheaper foods would be motivation enough for one to change his/her diet.
ReplyDeleteGranted, a lot of healthier foods do cost more, but it's not difficult to be a smart shopper. My friend in DC is vegan, and she still manages to make ends meet. I feel if one's going to purchase produce, they buy it in more reasonable amounts opposed to stocking their kitchens with it.
Another option I partake in is sauteing vegetables for meals, then freeze them. They're lasting longer and you're not losing nearly as much money.