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Teach Me To Fish...

I've been reading Marion Nestle's "What to Eat" lately, and let me tell you, it is quite a tome. Overwhelming, perhaps.

The more I read, the more I am convinced that

a. Food consumers are not stupid, but yes, ignorant.

b. The food industry is fraught with unscrupulousness.

c. Various concerns about public health and safety come in second place nearly every time to companies who have a lot of money and lobbyists.

d. All of the above.

I suppose you could look at it two ways: one, it's depressing to think how duped the American consumer has been for all these years...and yeah, an isolated tropical island free of politicians is looking pretty appealing right about now.

OR

Two, this is Enlightenment. This is evolution of the human species. Knowledge is power, and knowing is half the battle (via G.I. Joe). Now, we can start making good and right choices.

Me, I choose No. 2. Nestle's section on fish is rather extensive...at various points, it occurs to me a degree in Marine Biology or similar would be very useful. Anyhow, out of all the pescatological chaos, I came across this:

Seafood Watch

Depending on what part of the US you live, it lists fish that are okay to eat (safe, not overfished, etc). It also details seafood that is unsafe to eat. Good stuff! It folds up into a size that fits into your wallet and you can schlep it with you in supermarkets and restaurants. Double good!

I look forward to using it. Maybe you will too.

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