The Deindustrialist Newsletter: [Issue 2 - Week of October 16th, 2023]
Exposing Big Food's Influence, Processed Food Addictions, and The Truth About Raw Milk
Hello, Deindustrialists!
First off, as I’m editing this week’s newsletter an alert comes across my desktop stating that Representatives Josh Harder (CA-9) and Jared Golden (ME-2) have re-introduced the Ban Corporate PACs Act, aiming to prohibit corporate Political Action Committees (PACs). Corporate PACs contributed over $360 million to federal campaigns during the 2022 midterms, the largest of any PACs. Rep. Harder emphasized the need to prioritize families over corporate interests in politics, while Rep. Golden called for everyday voters' voices to be heard. The bill seeks to prevent for-profit corporations from sponsoring or operating PACs and mandates the dissolution of existing corporate PACs within a year. Corporate PACs, often steered by corporate lobbyists, are set up to influence policies and support business interests.
Obviously, Big Money won’t let this pass.
The pervasive influence of major industries in our political system is largely due to their financial power in Congress. (Enough financial power to squash Act’s just like this.) The intertwining of substantial financial interests with our democracy has led to a corporatocracy that often prioritizes profits over people. If we aspire to redirect our nation's course towards a more people-centric approach, removing corporate financial influence from politics is imperative. Make it so Rep. Harder.
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In this week’s issue:
➡️ We delve into the alarming influence of major food corporations, like Kraft Heinz, over school nutrition, illuminating the potential consequences on childhood obesity. Meanwhile, recent research uncovers the unsettlingly addictive nature of ultra-processed foods, likening their grip on consumers to that of nicotine and alcohol. Rounding out our focus, Moms Across America sheds light on the disconcerting contents of popular fast foods, unmasking the presence of antibiotics, pesticides, and heavy metals, and prompting a critical reevaluation of what we feed our children.
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NEW to this issue:
➡️ A brief rundown of other pertinent news in the world of Big Industry from the week, plus my reflection on why these stories matter to us and what we can do about it.
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Finally, you will find my reflective essay on the chemicals that encompass our lives, as well as a community spotlight on one of my favorite farms and what’s recently been happening to them by the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture, some more actionable tips to help you ‘Deindustrialize Your Life’, and my resource of the week.
Enjoy!
Week of October 16th Highlights
1️⃣ Schools, Regulators Bend the Knee to Big Food: Lunchables Now On School Lunch Menus
Summary:
A recent Washington Post investigation has exposed how Kraft Heinz managed to get "Lunchables" onto school menus, revealing the enormous influence that the food industry has over school nutrition programs. The report found that industry lobbying and weak regulations have contributed to the U.S.'s alarming childhood obesity rates. Critics argue that these processed foods are laden with unhealthy ingredients and chemicals that are detrimental to children's health.
Why It Matters:
Childhood obesity is a growing concern, with 1 in 5 U.S. children considered obese. The food served in schools plays a significant role in this crisis, especially among low-income children who rely on school lunches. Kraft Heinz views these lunches as a gateway to a $25 billion market and uses aggressive advertising tactics to influence school lunch administrators.
Actionable Insight:
Parents, educators, and concerned citizens should advocate for healthier, more transparent food options in schools and push for stricter regulations on what can be included in school lunch programs. By raising awareness and demanding change, we can protect our children from the harmful impacts of processed foods and work towards a healthier future.
Additional Context:
Industry finds loopholes in existing USDA regulations to meet the bare minimum nutritional standards, often at the cost of increased sodium or other unhealthy ingredients.
Big Food invests heavily in marketing to children, seeing school lunches as a way to create lifetime customers.
The School Nutrition Association (SNA), which should represent the interests of school nutrition workers, is largely funded by Big Food companies like Kraft Heinz, Tyson Foods, PepsiCo, and Cargill.
Legislators backed by Big Food have fought against efforts to improve children's diets, keeping processed and pesticide-laden foods in schools.
By understanding the depth of the issue, we can take collective action to ensure our children are not the victims of corporate greed at the expense of their health.
2️⃣ Shocker: Ultra Processed Foods as Addictive as Nicotine or Alcohol
Summary:
A recent study published in the British Medical Journal reveals that ultra-processed foods can be as addictive as nicotine or alcohol. The research, which analyzed 281 studies across 36 countries, estimates that 14% of adults and 12% of children are addicted to ultra-processed foods. These foods are particularly addictive when they contain a combination of refined carbohydrates and fats.
Why It Matters:
The addictive nature of ultra-processed foods is a growing concern, especially given that they make up 58% of calories consumed in the United States. Understanding the addictive qualities of these foods can help us make better choices for ourselves and our families.
Actionable Insight:
Be cautious of the ultra-processed foods in your diet, especially in your kids’. These foods not only have poor nutritional value but can also lead to addictive eating behaviors. Feeding your children UPF at such an early age can set them up for a lifetime of struggling with these food addictions and poor eating habits. Opt for whole, natural foods whenever possible to avoid the addictive cycle triggered by ultra-processed items.
Additional Context:
The study used the Yale Food Addiction Scale to measure addiction, considering factors like reduced control over intake, cravings, and withdrawal.
The addictive nature of these foods is linked to spikes in dopamine levels in the brain, similar to the effects of alcohol and nicotine.
This study underscores the importance of being mindful of our food choices, especially in a landscape where ultra-processed foods are so prevalent and easily accessible.
3️⃣ Moms Across America Perform the Ultimate Takedown of the Fast Food Industry: Find high prevalence of antibiotics and hormones, pesticides, and heavy metals in fast foods, while also severely lacking nutrition
Summary:
Moms Across America (MAA) has released a series of alarming reports on the quality of food in popular U.S. fast food chains. The first report found veterinary drugs, including an animal contraceptive, in Chick-fil-A chicken sandwiches and antibiotics in 60% of samples from the top 10 fast food chains. The second report revealed that all top 20 fast food brands tested positive for glyphosate, the main ingredient in Monsanto’s Roundup herbicide, and 76% tested positive for other harmful pesticides. The third report found alarming levels of heavy metals like cadmium and lead in 100% of the 42 fast food samples tested. The fourth report showed a severe lack of essential minerals and vitamins, including zero amounts of Vitamin B9 and B12 in the top ten fast food samples. Additionally, caloric values in some fast food items were significantly higher than declared, contributing to overconsumption and obesity.
Why It Matters:
These findings are particularly concerning as some of these fast food chains supply school lunches. This is not terribly surprising as a study last year by MAA found school lunches to indeed be riddled with a significant amount of toxins. With rising infertility rates, skyrocketing levels of mental health issues, and a host of other health issues, including neurologic disorders and metabolic disruption, the reports signal a national health crisis. The presence of multiple pesticides, veterinary drugs, and heavy metals in fast food poses a significant risk to millions of Americans, especially children. We as parents MUST take this seriously when considering what we feed our children.
Actionable Insights:
Consumers, particularly parents, should be cautious when choosing fast food options and consider verified alternatives. Although, your best bet is to avoid fast food at all costs.
Advocacy for stricter food quality regulations is crucial. Support organizations pushing for these changes.
Encourage elected officials to take action, such as funding organic farms and cracking down on toxins in kids' food.
Consider supporting or starting a Neighborhood Food Network for locally sourced, safer food options.
Additional Context:
The reports are set to be presented to U.S. lawmakers in congressional briefings on food toxicity. Health experts warn that the chronic ingestion of these substances can lead to a range of health issues, from neurologic disorders to immune dysfunction. Solutions discussed in the hearings include funding organic farms and reducing the toxic load in food. Mark Doudlah, a sixth-generation farmer, emphasized that the U.S. government can either reactively spend on healthcare after kids get sick or proactively invest in organic food to prevent illness. MAA recommends the Rodale Institute and Regenerative Organic Certified for further education regarding regenerative organic agriculture.
Week of October 16th, News Rundown In-Brief:
16 October 2023 - EPA's refusal to evaluate complete pesticide formulations—including 'inert' ingredients—reveals a blatant disregard for public health, further eroding trust in an agency meant to protect us.
16 October 2023 - Report on a Danish study that links popular antacid medications, Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs), to increased dementia risk in adults under 90, reigniting concerns about the gut-brain connection and prompting calls for further research and raising questions about society's quick-fix approach to poor dietary habits with over-the-counter solutions.
17 October 2023 - Curtis Bay Energy, the U.S.'s largest medical waste incinerator, slapped with a $1 million fine for criminal mishandling of biohazardous materials, jeopardizing both our drinking water and community health—a clear call to action for stricter environmental oversight and a reminder to never trust the purity of your tap water.
17 October 2023 - In a striking report from NBC News, increasing vaccine hesitancy among pregnant women has become a public health concern, especially as medical agencies like the CDC continue to push for a four-vaccine regimen during pregnancy. This includes the flu, Tdap, the controversial COVID-19, and, the recently approved, RSV vaccines. The report suggests that trust in medical authorities has eroded significantly, particularly when it comes to administering newly developed substances to expectant mothers. People are becoming more aware of what these vaccines consist of, and what kind of negative health outcomes they have. All people - especially pregnant women - should be hyper-aware of what goes into their bodies.
18 October 2023 - New research indicates that early-life exposure to Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs), commonly found in plastics and personal care items, is linked to accelerated BMI gain in children, raising long-term health concerns.
Looking Back On News Missed, But Not Dismissed
12 October 2023 - Beyond Pesticides reports on research in Environment International reveal that exposure to Big Chemical's environmental toxins during crucial maternal stages—the second and third trimesters—amplifies inflammation pathways linked to breast cancer risk.
13 September 2023 - Groundbreaking study by Duke University links glyphosate in Roundup—a commonly used herbicide—to alarming rates of mysterious kidney failure in rural Sri Lanka, raising serious concerns over its long-term impact on drinking water and public health globally.
6 September 2023 - New study in the British Journal of Medicine reveals certain food emulsifiers commonly found in processed goods are linked to increased risks of heart and cerebrovascular diseases, underscoring the importance of scrutinizing ingredient labels for better heart health.
23 August 2023 - New research highlights the detrimental effects of excessive screen time in childhood, linking it to increased risk of heart disease and mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, by the time they reach young adulthood. The study urges parents to monitor and limit screen time to promote better physical and emotional well-being in children.
Why These Stories Matter
This week's news reveals a deeply concerning trend: the industrial system's pervasive and often detrimental impact on public health and environmental safety. From Curtis Bay Energy's criminal mishandling of biohazardous waste to the EPA's refusal to evaluate complete pesticide formulations, the stories underscore the urgent need for reform. New research also highlights the long-term health risks associated with early-life exposure to Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs), popular antacid medications, and even excessive screen time for children. Additionally, increasing vaccine hesitancy among pregnant women and reports on environmental toxins and food additives further erode public trust in institutions meant to protect us. These issues are not isolated incidents but interconnected symptoms of a flawed industrial system that prioritizes profit over well-being.
The stories collectively serve as a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of industrialization without adequate oversight. They reveal a multi-faceted crisis affecting everything from our drinking water and food supply to our medications and even our screen time. The current trajectory is unsustainable and fraught with risks, affecting vulnerable populations the most—such as children and pregnant women. The erosion of trust in regulatory agencies like the EPA and CDC further complicates the issue, making it imperative for society to demand systemic change.
What Can We Do About It?
Demand Stricter Environmental Oversight: Advocate for more robust regulations, especially in the management of biohazardous waste, to protect community health and drinking water.
Push for Comprehensive Pesticide Evaluation: Lobby for the EPA to include 'inert' ingredients in their pesticide evaluations to ensure public safety.
Educate About Chemical Exposures: Raise awareness about the risks associated with EDCs in plastics and personal care items, especially their impact on children's long-term health.
Question Medical Authorities: Given the increasing vaccine hesitancy among pregnant women, it's crucial to demand transparency and unbiased information from medical agencies like the CDC.
Scrutinize Over-the-Counter Medications: Be cautious about the use of popular antacid medications and their potential link to dementia.
Be Aware of Environmental Toxins: Educate your family, friends, and community about the risks of exposure to environmental toxins during pregnancy and its potential link to breast cancer.
Question Herbicide Safety: Advocate for more research into the long-term impacts of commonly used herbicides like glyphosate on public health and drinking water.
Examine Food Additives: Be vigilant about food emulsifiers in processed goods and their potential link to heart and cerebrovascular diseases.
Limit Screen Time: Parents should be aware of the detrimental effects of excessive screen time on children's physical and emotional well-being and take steps to limit it.
This Week’s In-Depth Essay:
Chemicals, Chemicals, Chemicals. Chemicals in Your Hair. Chemicals in the Air. Chemicals, Chemicals, Everywhere.
Dive into this week's thought-provoking essay that tackles an issue affecting each and every one of us: the ubiquitous presence of chemicals in our daily lives. From the food we eat to the toys our children play with, chemicals have woven their way into the fabric of our existence. But what impact does this have on our long-term health, and how complicit are we in perpetuating this cycle?
This comprehensive piece raises critical questions about the influence of 'Big Chemical' across various sectors like Big Food, Big Pharma, and Big Tech. It questions the integrity of our systems and offers a call-to-action for families who seek a life less dictated by synthetic compounds.
If you've ever pondered the balance between advancement and authenticity, or wondered how to reclaim some semblance of control in a world overrun by chemical saturation, this essay is a must-read. Prepare to challenge your perspectives and re-examine your choices. It's time to question whether we're on a sustainable path and how we can course-correct for the sake of our families and our planet.
Check it out here.
🛠 Actionable Tips
1️⃣ Concrete Steps Families and Individuals Can Take to Reduce Chemical Exposures in Their Daily Lives:
Opt for Natural Cleaning Products: Instead of commercial cleaners, choose vinegar, baking soda, lemon, and essential oils for cleaning. These are effective and don't contain harmful chemicals.
Organic Foods: Whenever possible, buy and consume organic foods. They are grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
Use Glass or Stainless Steel: For food storage and drinking, use glass or stainless steel instead of plastic to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals like BPA.
Limit Processed Foods: These often contain a myriad of chemicals in the form of preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors.
Filter Your Water: Invest in a good water filter for your home to remove contaminants and chemicals from your drinking water.
Natural Personal Care Products: Choose shampoos, lotions, and other personal care items that are free from parabens, sulfates, and other harmful chemicals.
Use Natural Bug Repellents: Instead of chemical sprays, use essential oils or plants that naturally repel bugs.
Ventilate Your Home: Ensure that your home is well-ventilated. Regularly open windows and doors to let in fresh air and dispel indoor pollutants.
Limit Synthetic Fragrances: Avoid air fresheners and choose natural alternatives like essential oil diffusers.
Choose Non-toxic Cookware: Avoid non-stick cookware and choose alternatives like cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic.
Grow Your Own: If space allows, start a garden. This gives you control over what goes into the soil and onto your plants.
Buy Natural Fiber Clothing: Choose clothes made from natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk. These tend to have fewer chemicals than synthetic materials.
Ditch the Lawn Chemicals: Avoid using chemical fertilizers and pesticides on your lawn. Opt for organic or natural alternatives.
Reduce Plastic Usage: Plastics can leach chemicals, especially when heated. Use alternatives like cloth, paper, or biodegradable products.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common household chemicals and their alternatives. The more you know, the better choices you can make.
Community Engagement: Advocate for and support community initiatives that promote green spaces, reduce pollution, and limit the use of harmful chemicals in public spaces.
Implementing these steps can not only reduce your family's exposure to potentially harmful chemicals but can also foster a stronger connection with nature. Remember that every small change counts, and collectively, they can make a significant difference in your family's health and well-being.
🏡 Community Corner
🗣 Company Spotlight of the Week: Oake Knoll Farms, Foxboro, MA
I first encountered Oake Knoll Farms after relocating to Foxboro, MA from the quaint Bay Village in the heart of Boston. This move marked a pivotal moment in my understanding of nutrition, prompting me to question the industrialization of our food systems and their descent into chemical-laden, nutritionally deficient produce. As I passed by Oake Knoll Farms during my initial months in Foxboro, curiosity finally led me to explore their offerings. It was here that I was introduced to the concept of raw milk and dairy products. Despite my lifelong conditioning against raw milk, deeming it dangerous, my perceptions were challenged when Terri, a dedicated mother and key figure at the farm, shared her family's regular consumption of it, even during her pregnancies. This revelation propelled me into extensive research about raw milk and its implications
What I discovered was truly enlightening and it completely transformed my perspective on modern food consumption. Raw milk, contrary to popular belief, is teeming with beneficial bacteria, enzymes, and nutrients that are often destroyed during the pasteurization process. I learned that pasteurization became a standard primarily to combat diseases like tuberculosis and brucellosis, which were once prevalent in dairy herds. However, with advancements in animal husbandry and the rigorous health standards that most organic farms adhere to today, the risk of such diseases has drastically reduced.
I also delved into numerous studies and reports that highlighted the health benefits of raw milk. It's rich in vitamins A, D, and B12, minerals like calcium and phosphorus, and essential fatty acids. More than that, raw milk contains probiotics that are beneficial for gut health and strengthening the immune system. These probiotics are the very ones that are often killed during the pasteurization process.
But beyond the scientific evidence and health benefits, what struck me most was the philosophy behind raw milk consumption. It's a return to a simpler time, before industrialization took over our food systems. It represents a conscious choice to consume products in their most natural state, untainted by chemicals or unnecessary processing. By choosing raw milk, I felt like I was not only nourishing my body but also taking a stand against the corporate-driven food industry that prioritizes profit over health.
Terri and her family, who ran Oake Knoll Farms, became a source of inspiration for me. Their dedication to preserving the natural goodness of milk, their commitment to ethical farming practices, and their unwavering belief in the benefits of raw dairy were commendable. It made me realize how disconnected we've become from the very food that sustains us and how much we've sacrificed in the name of convenience and scalability.
As I continued my journey of understanding and embracing raw milk, I began to share my discoveries with friends and family. Many were skeptical at first, just as I had been. But by presenting them with the evidence and letting them taste the creamy, rich flavor of raw milk, many became converts.
In conclusion, Oake Knoll Farms was more than just a place where I discovered raw milk. It was the catalyst that opened my eyes to the true essence of food and nutrition. It reminded me of the importance of making informed choices and advocating for a food system that prioritizes health, sustainability, and transparency. Today, as I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for that fateful day I decided to stop by the farm, for it led me down a path of discovery, enlightenment, and a renewed commitment to holistic well-being.
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Oake Knoll Farms is open seven days a week, from 10am-6pm! They also offer much more than raw dairy, they sell their own pastured-raised meat products as well as a plethora of locally sourced products from the surrounding community. If you live in the area, please don’t hesitate to stop by, or even make the trip if you don’t!
📚 Resource of the Week
What It Is: For those interested in trying or drinking raw milk and experiencing its creamy deliciousness, you can use the link above to see if there are any raw milk farms nearby.
Why It's Useful: It's challenging to find farms that produce and sell raw milk on Google or elsewhere because they are typically local small farms. This "Raw Milk Finder" is an incredibly useful tool for that purpose!
Conclusion
The past week has been an eye-opener for many of us, bringing to light critical issues surrounding the food and health industries. From the alarming influence of Big Food corporations on our children's school lunches to the widespread presence of chemicals in fast food, our food choices are constantly under threat. Additionally, the addictive nature of ultra-processed foods and the detrimental effects of certain over-the-counter medications further emphasize the need for vigilance and education.
Yet, amidst these challenges, there is hope. Advocacy groups, local farms, and engaged communities are pushing back against corporate greed and misinformation. The spotlight on Oake Knoll Farms serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of individuals who prioritize health, authenticity, and transparency over convenience and profit.
While the path to a healthier and more sustainable future may seem daunting, it is achievable through collective action, informed choices, and a return to nature. Let us be inspired by the stories and insights shared this week, and together, work towards a world where our well-being and that of our children are not compromised by industrial interests.
As we move forward, let's remember the importance of staying informed, advocating for change, and supporting local initiatives that prioritize health and sustainability. It's our collective responsibility to create a safer, healthier environment for ourselves and future generations. Remember, every choice we make has an impact, and together, we can make a difference.
And as always,
Stay Aware. Stay Empowered. Stay Free.
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