Chicken: The Dangerous Transformation of America’s Favorite Food
Anthropologist Steve Striffler begins this book in a poultry processing plant, drawing on his own experiences there as a worker. He also reports on the way chickens are raised today and how they are consumed. What he discovers about America’s favorite meat is not just unpleasant but a powerful indictment of our industrial food system. The process of bringing chicken to our dinner tables is unhealthy for all concerned—from farmer to factory worker to consumer.The book traces the development of the poultry industry since the Second World War, analyzing the impact of such changes as the destruction of the family farm, the processing of chicken into nuggets and patties, and the changing makeup of the industrial labor force. The author describes the lives of immigrant workers and their reception in the small towns where they live. The conclusion is clear: there has to be a better way. Striffler proposes radical but practical change, a plan that promises more humane treatment of chickens, better food for the consumer, and fair payment for food workers and farmers.
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5 Responses
Review by Jacko for Chicken: The Dangerous Transformation of America’s Favorite Food
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Wow! An academic who can write! This is a great book from beginning to end. Striffler actually worked in poultry processing plants and lived to tell about it — and tell about it he does! He really provides an excellent, if critical, look at not only the industry, but how we raise, cook, eat….food in general. And he is a great writer. It really makes you think.
One other thing. I noticed one reviewer on Amazon was critical of Striffler for caring more about poultry workers than chickens. Uhh? I hope he cares more about people than birds! Is this a bad thing? I am an animal rights activist, and I wish there was more on this subject in the book, but that would be a very different book for a very different audience. This is just not a book about animal rights; it is much broader in perspective. But I found the book to be very informative, and even suggestive for those of us interested in animal rights….because Striffler provides the whole picture. The fact is that most people eat chicken, and will do so for some time — so the question is how do we make the system better for everyone, including the birds. On this, Striffler is very critical of the industry; his analysis is superb and his ideas suggestive. Let’s not lose perspective!
Posted on November 3rd, 2010 at 10:26 pm
Review by Peter F. Rousmaniere for Chicken: The Dangerous Transformation of America’s Favorite Food
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I bought and read Striffler’s book to gain a better understanding of the largely immigrant-filled workforce in the meat processing industry. This book more than satisfied me. It serves not only to introduce you to the growth of the chicken industry, but also to describe insightfully immigrant workers’ experiences, in any industry.
It is a very timely book given this year’s focus on immigration reform. This industry will likely be more affected than any other if any major legislation is enacted.
Posted on November 3rd, 2010 at 11:11 pm
Review by Janey for Chicken: The Dangerous Transformation of America’s Favorite Food
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This is one of the best books I have read on food. If you liked Fast Food Nation you will love this book. In some ways it is better, in other ways it is just different. Striffler is a wonderful writer and storyteller. The history of the industry, and the rise of so many chicken products, is fascinating. His account of working in a poultry processing plant is incredible — sad and funny at the same time.
Definitely read this book. It will change the way you think about chicken, food in general, and the immigrant workers who do all the work.
Awesome book!
Posted on November 3rd, 2010 at 11:12 pm
Review by W Boudville for Chicken: The Dangerous Transformation of America’s Favorite Food
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Striffler gives an inquisitive peek at an industry that most people have little awareness of. Much of his book studies the workforce that mans the chicken abbatoirs. The prose shows a somewhat grisly job, that is also repetitive, mind-numbing and dangerous. The ever sharp knives and scalding liquids give rise to the inevitable workplace injuries.
Yet hope shines through in portions of the book. Many of the workers are Mexicans, who more or less legally migrate to these factories, which are often located in the American South. To the Mexicans, the work offers a good income that can support entire families back home.
Posted on November 3rd, 2010 at 11:33 pm
Review by Catherine A. Tottem for Chicken: The Dangerous Transformation of America’s Favorite Food
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This book is a must read for anyone who eats Chickens. You should know what you are supporting and the dangers of the product.
Posted on November 4th, 2010 at 12:25 am
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