Big Ideas and Themes
What's the Omnivore's Dilemma?
The problem humans face because we can eat many different foods but must decide what is healthy, ethical, and sustainable.
What crop is at the center of the industrial food chain?
Corn.
What is one food chain Pollan personally follows in the book?
The industrial food chain, the organic food chain, or the hunter-gatherer food chain.
What does “industrial” mean in the context of food production?
Made on a large scale using machines, chemicals, and factories.
What does “evidence” mean in EL classrooms?
Facts, examples, or details from the text that support ideas.
One major theme of the book is that food choices affect more than just our bodies. What else do they affect?
The environment, animals, farmers, and society.
Name one food that contains corn even if it doesn’t look like it.
Soda, cereal, chicken nuggets, candy, or fast food burgers.
Why does Pollan decide to hunt his own food later in the book?
To fully understand where food comes from and take responsibility for eating animals.
What does “organic” mean in the book?
Food grown without synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
Give one example of evidence Pollan uses.
Interviews, observations, statistics, or scientific facts.
Why does Pollan believe it’s important to know where our food comes from?
Because understanding food systems helps us make healthier and more responsible choices.
What is CAFO short for?
Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation.
How does Pollan feel emotionally about killing an animal for food?
He feels conflicted, uncomfortable, but also more aware and respectful.
What does “sustainable” mean?
Able to continue without harming the environment long-term
Why is citing evidence important when discussing this book?
: It strengthens arguments and shows understanding.
How does the book challenge the idea that “cheap food” is always good?
Cheap food often has hidden costs like environmental damage, poor health, and unfair labor.
Why do cows in industrial systems get sick from eating corn?
Their bodies are designed to digest grass, not corn.
What does Pollan learn from spending time with farmers?
Farming decisions are complex and connected to economics and the environment.
What does “processed food” refer to?
Food that has been changed from its natural state, often in factories.
How does Pollan balance facts and opinions?
He supports opinions with research and real-world examples.
What message does Pollan send about personal responsibility and food choices?
Individuals can make informed choices that support better food systems.
What is one environmental problem caused by industrial farming?
Pollution, soil damage, water contamination, or loss of biodiversity.
How do Pollan’s experiences help readers understand the text better?
They provide real-life examples and firsthand evidence
What does “food chain” mean in this book?
The path food takes from nature to our plate.
What claim could a student make using evidence from the book?
Industrial food systems harm the environment or knowing your food source matters.