Fast Food Nation- Introduction

Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser illustrates how much fast food has changed our society. More money is spent on fast food than higher education, computers, cars, movies, books, and music combined (2). Our nation has been transformed by fast food, which can be seen in our land, economy, culture, and workforce. half of the money we spend on food goes to restaurants. He particularly highlights McDonald's, which is responsible for 90% of the countries new jobs, opens 2000 new restaurants a year, and hires about one million people a year (3). The only more commonly recognized character than Ronald McDonald for children is Santa Clause. Our entire nation has been franchised and made uniform. Despite their vast industry, the only workers who receive less pay than fast food workers are migrant farmers (5).  The food "prepared" for us at these corporations is actually canned, frozen, or freeze-dried and is a result of mass technology from chemical plants (5). These industries have completely altered America. Farms have been replaced my urban areas for production and corporations. Their power is unparalled. A stuffed toy will be recalled by the government for its potential harm, but contaminated foods will remain (7). He is particularly worried for children. The routine of fast food is too familiar; people need to be more aware of the process and their decisions.