Vocabulary
What does the term " omnivore" mean?
A creature that eats both plants and animals
What is one advantage of hybrid plants?
They often produce higher yields compared to traditional varieties.
How do agribusinesses typically make money from farmers?
By selling seeds, fertilizers, and providing services that farmers need.
What is one way farmers can increase their income?
By diversifying their crops and adding value trough processing.
What is Michael Pollan's primary purpose in writing "The Omnivore's Dilemma"?
To explore the complexities of food choices and their implications.
Define 'hybrid plants"
Plants that are produced by crossbreeding different species and varieties to create a new variety.
Name a disadvantage of hybrid plants.
They can be less resilient to diseases compared to heirloom varieties.
What is a common financial challenge farmers face with agribusinesses?
Farmers may incur debt due to the high cost of inputs from agribusinesses.
How does organic farming impact a farmer's income potential?
Organic products often sell for higher price, increasing profit margins.
How does Pollan aim to inform readers about food productions?
By providing detailed accounts of food systems and agricultural practices.
What is " agribusiness"?
The business of agricultural production which includes farming, seed supply, and food processing.
How do hybrid plants affect biodiversity?
They can reduce biodiversity by dominating the market and displacing traditional varieties.
What role do contracts play in agribusiness profits?
Contracts can lock farmers into specific prices or terms, affecting their profits.
What role does government subsidy play in farmers' income?
Subsidies can help stabilize income during tough economic times.
What messages does Pollan convey about the modern food industry?
That it is often disconnected from the sources of food and the impact on health and environment.
What is "sustainability" refer to in agriculture?
Practices that maintain the health of the environment, economy, and society for future generations.
Hybrid plants can offer more consistency in size and quality, which can be more profitable.
How can agribusinesses influence the price of crops?
By controlling supply chains and setting market prices.
Name a strategy farmers can use to reduce costs and increase profits.
Implementing sustainable farming practices that lower input costs.
Why does Pollan use personal anecdotes in his writing?
To connect with the reader and illustrate the food journey.
Explain the term "monoculture."
The agricultural practice of growing a single crop over a wide area for many consecutive years.
Discuss a potential long-term impact of relying on hybrid plants.
It may lead to a loss of traditional plant varieties and genetic diversity.
What is a potential downside for farmers working with large agribusinesses?
They can lose autonomy over farming practices and crops.
Discuss how direct-to-consumer sales can benefit farmers.
It allows farmers to retain more profits by cutting out middlemen.
How does Pollan's purpose challenge readers' perceptions of food?
It encourages critical thinking about what we eat and where it comes from.