You are what you eat. This is a somewhat horrifying and extremely accurate statement. Most people are conscious enough to think about food groups, the food pyramid and eating some amount of vegetables a week, but most Americans are largely uneducated about the American food system. With every new year, unique food trends, eating healthier and living more naturally has become more and more popular. Anna Lappe, an author known for her expertise on food systems and food sustainability writes, "We can tell you that the level of awareness and concern for the food we are eating is higher than it has ever been" (Lappe). In the general media, the millennial generation has been criticized on just about every front. Bloomberg declared them to be the most selfish generation, while other sources have called them narcissistic, self-absorbed, arrogant and the "Me Generation". Well, some of this might be true. We all like to think we are special, that we're worldly, educated, exercise regularly, trying out new fads and doing our part in the world by buying organic, fair-trade coffee. Why do we do these things? Because things like this matter for our appearances and our own narcissistic pleasure. But, the Millennial generation is not stupid. We know the evils of McDonalds, Taco Bell, Chick-Fil-A and drinking nonstop coffee. We understand that our choices matter in the long run and affect our health and image. There is a general sense of entitlement and the desire to always have something better, to look better. And this is exactly the reason I believe the Millennial generation will be the ones to change the American food system. Today, many consumers do not know where their food comes from or how it is produced. Because of this, uninformed consumers are overweight, more susceptible to sickness, and generally unhealthier than a vast majority of the world. By becoming more informed consumers and adopting a more natural, GMO-free and organic lifestyle, the Millennial generation will change the American food system. 

The Basics of Eating Organically

Eating organic: the diet supposedly reserved for hippies, celebrities, the upper class and supermodels. Organic refers to the way agricultural products are grown and processed, as according to organic standards. These standards, set forth by the USDA, require foods to be produced without the use of antibiotics, artificial growth hormones, high fructose corn syrup, artificial dyes, chemical pesticides and fertilizers, GMOs, sewage sludge and irradiation. Conventional foods are not required to have these things on their labels. Products bearing the USDA Organic Seal and 100% Organic label adhere to the legal standards. (O'Brien) Organic farmers are under extremely strict guidelines. Their produce can only be called organic if grown on soil that has had no prohibited substances applied three years before harvest. Organic meat must come from animals raised in living conditions accommodating their natural behaviors, such as grazing areas, space to roam and 100% organic feed. (Woodford) It's funny to think that the government doesn't require and enforce basic, natural living conditions for all meat sold for consumption. 

The use of drugs, hormones, synthetic chemicals and ionizing radiation is also prohibited during the raising of animals. For conventional foods, hormones are fed to animals to help them grow faster and produce leaner meat for food. This means that a dairy cow's intake of growth hormones for increased milk production lends itself to consumers consuming those leftover hormones. That nice, juicy, conventional steak you just ate? It was highly likely to contain antibiotics administered to cows to encourage weight gain and prevent illness. According to the Environmental Working Group, about 87% of tested nonorganic meat has some strain of antibiotic resistant bacteria in it. (Woodford) A specific antibiotic used, Roxarsone, is not even safe for human consumption. But, because it is fed to the animals weeks before slaughter, there are only trace amounts left in the meat when it is sold. The USDA has found that eating around 2 ounces of meat daily (the recommended USDA meat intake per day is 5  one-half  ounces) exposes you to 3-5 micrograms of arsenic left over from antibiotics. Daily intake of conventional meat exposes you to arsenic, which can increase the risk of cancer, dementia and other neurological issues (Woodford).  

Another specification of organic foods is that no genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can be in products that bear the USDA organic label. GMOs have become an extremely hot topic recently, and many products such as Campbell's soup, Ben & Jerry's, General Mills cereal and Clif bars are free of them. Many Millennials know that GMOs are considered bad for you, but they do not know what they are. GMOs are plants or animals whose cells have been inserted with a gene from another species in order to take on certain characteristics not found in nature. GMOs have been apart of our food system for over 20 years, and growing evidence has connected GMOs with health problems such as decreased nutritional value and the creation of allergens and toxins in food. Other evidence has been gathered for infertility, immune problems and accelerated aging. Numerous health problems have also arose since the introduction of GMOs in 1996 including the skyrocketing of food allergies and the percent of Americans living with a chronic illness rose by 6%. Currently, the American Academy of Medicine recommends all persons to follow a non-GMO diet. It is practically impossible to avoid GMOs in your diet without going organic. 88% of corn and 94% of soy is GMO, according to the USDA. (Loux, Prevention). By eating organically, all GMOs are avoided. Currently, GMOs are a hot topic in the American food system. Although some pro-GMO arguments say there are no inherent differences between non-GMO and GMO products and that they present no harm to the public, there is not enough evidence to dismiss the possibility that GMOs are extremely harmful to the public's health. 

Many labels lend themselves into making customers believe they are 'better' for you or more nutritional. Many misconceptions occur on a visit to any local grocery store. A recent Consumers Report found that "a third of those questioned thought 'natural' was the same as 'organic'". Foods labeled 'natural' are not certified organic. In fact, they might not even be better for you than conventional foods. Natural foods are assumed to be minimally processed and without pesticides or growth hormones. However, neither the FDA or USDA have regulations on products labeled 'natural', thus many products still contain processed ingredients. The same goes for eggs labeled "cage-free". If the label does not exclusively say 'pasture-raised', there is not humane treatment involved. In order to get the real story of what exactly is in the food you buy, make sure to look at the ingredient list on the back before purchasing. 

The main complaint about organic foods is their expensiveness in comparison to conventional products. This is because of the strict guidelines the USDA has placed on organic farmers and the lack of subsidies and support these farmers receive. The organic process is also more labor and management intensive, which makes the final product more expensive. First, organic certification must be obtained for both the farmer and the final seller (Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, etc). When a farmer or processor is certified organic, the USDA has verified that it meets certain labeling, farming and handling guidelines. Farmers work to treat animals humanely, reduce 'food miles' between consumers and minimize negative environmental impacts in farming practices. In 2015, the USDA reported over 14,000 operational organic farms selling $5.5 billion of produce; this number grew by 72% from 2008. In the UK, between 1999 and 2015, the market for organic foods grew by 20 times. Even though only 5-10% of farming is currently organic in America, this industry is seeing extremely big growth and is expected to grow in the next twenty years. Because organic foods are more expensive than their conventional counterparts, many low-income families may not be able to afford an organic grocery bill. This is one argument against the organic movement. However, stores such as Costco and Walmart are currently working to provide more cost-efficient and readily available organic products. These stores make buying organic products more likely for low-income families. As of right now, it is extremely hard to campaign for organic farming subsidies. If organic subsidies were to be granted and provided, the cost of organic foods would become equal to that of conventional foods. But, this bill is not likely to be passed in the foreseeable future because of the influence of large, conventional product companies. However, stores like Costco and Walmart can continue to provide organic products and cater to those low-income families. 

Benefits of an Organic Lifestyle

The health benefits of going organic are plentiful. Many consumers decide to buy organic foods because they perceive them as healthier, free of pesticides, more nutritious, ethically correct, GMO free and supportive of small farms. Regardless of any diet, organic foods are an extremely smart addition for immediate health benefits and future generations. According to Monte Morin, in a study of 343 products conducted by the British Journal of Nutrition, "organic crops contain higher concentrations of antioxidants on average than conventionally grown foods" (Morin). Why have to eat nearly twice as many servings of conventional foods to get the same nutrients? Growth hormones found in conventional milk have been linked to early onset puberty, tumor growth, increased cancer risks and genetic issues. In Europe, the scientific community currently agrees "there is no acceptably safe level for daily intake of any of the hormones currently used in the US" (Loux), and has since banned all growth hormones in its products. Scientists are growing more worried about the growth hormones consumed in milk and dairy by children because early onset puberty results in early growth spurts, which slow fuller growth in adolescence. Take a look around. Notice those sixth, seventh and eighth graders who look like they could be in high school as of recent? It's hard not to connect a few dots here and worry about this spike in adolescent growth. This being said, milk is the most consistently and widely bought organic product in America. Researchers from Organic Valley have found that organic dairy products contain higher concentrations of omega 3 fatty acids in them, which play a critical role in brain function and normal growth and development. Children fed organic products also have lower levels of toxic insecticides in their systems due to lowered exposure to pesticides. Choosing organic meat and diet ensures lowered exposure to synthetic hormones that speed growth and disrupt reproductive systems. 

Chemical pesticides are extremely controversial in the health community. An average of sixteen pounds of chemical pesticides per person per year are sprayed on conventional foods. These cause numerous cases of cancer every year, diminish biodiversity and contaminate groundwater. Currently, conventional farmers use about 1.1 billion pounds of pesticides a year. These residues linger for months and years, pollute the soil, water and air. The chemicals also live within us. While any produce may contain low levels of pesticides contained within federal guidelines, many researchers are concerned with the 'pesticide load', or prolonged exposure to multiple pesticides over a lifetime. Studies show that exposure to pesticides may affect brain development and the odds of 8-15 year olds developing ADHD rose 55% with increased exposure to organophosphates, a common pesticide. Other studies have linked a mother's pesticide consumption during pregnancy to lower IQs and development in newborns. These genetic changes, triggered by pesticide exposure during pregnancy, are known to be passed from generation to generation. Within 5 days of going organic, pesticide residues can disappear from urine samples. In order to protect future generations, Millennials must limit their consumption of pesticides, growth hormones and GMOs.

The USDA produces a "Dirty Dozen" list every year consisting of the produce laden with the most pesticides. It is recommended that you buy all of these listed products organic. This list is evidence that eating a more organic diet that consists of less exposure to pesticides is not extremely expensive. According to Emi Boscamp, the list "helps customers make more educated decisions and economically spend their money in the right places" (Boscamp). If consumers focus on buying the Dirty Dozen's products exclusively organic, they will greatly increase their knowledge of organic foods, and in turn, improve their lifestyle. The products include apples, peaches, nectarines, strawberries, grapes, celery, spinach, bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, snap peas and potatoes. The Dirty Dozen list is important to show consumers how truly disgusting a majority of conventional produce bought is. It also proves there is a more cost-effective way for consumers to ingest less pesticides if they cannot afford to eat solely organically. 

Consumers are extremely attracted to the organic label and typically remain consistent buyers. People are becoming more educated in buying organic foods and realize the benefits of an organic/natural diet, with 63% of Americans buying at least some of their groceries with the organic label, according to a survey done by the Organic Consumers Association in 2015. 40% of those surveyed also expected to increase their consumption of organic products throughout 2016. GMOs, antibiotics and pesticides are the most serious concerns among consumers that buy organic foods. According to Bulent and Pelin Ergonul, "the most important reason for purchasing organic foods seems to be health and higher nutritional value (91% and 87% agreement rate)" (Ergonul). There is a projected 94% reduction in health risks if you eat organic foods rather than conventional foods. (Loux) Although the above mentions that 63% of Americans buy some of their groceries touting the organic label, admittedly, conventionally grown foods make up the majority of what American's buy on a daily basis. But, this is because not enough organic supply exists to meet its demand. Organic supply does not meet demand due to lack of consumer interest, but failure of the government to subsidize and support organic farming. In The food movement is small? Not from where we sit, it isn't, Lappe claims "We've heard personally from", the large food companies on not being able to meet public demand for organic products. The demand for organic foods is growing too fast for the industry to handle, and is only limited by lack of supply.

The American Food System

The Western Diet affects American's health and impacts national health care. Forks Over Knives, a documentary found on Netflix, emphasizes the importance of a whole foods, natural, plant-based diet. By adopting this diet, the two professors in the film, Dr. Esselstyn and Dr. Campbell, claim the chances of cancer, diabetes and heart conditions will decrease dramatically across America. By caring about what you put in your body, starting with the decision to go organic, your diet will transform immensely. The average American carries around 23 extra pounds. Many choose to 'live to eat' instead of 'eating to live'. The cost of organic foods dims in comparison to hospital bill and medical expenses paid later down the road. This being said, look at the prevalence of fast food in the American diet. Our fast-paced, on-the-go culture most certainly does not lend itself to making the right food decisions. With 40% of America currently obese and struggling with health problems, it is time for a change in our food system. Forks Over Knives offers a plant-based, natural diet and lifestyle as the solution. The food movement is coming, "But we can see it happening across the country  --  in grocery stores, school cafeterias, on family farms. And even in the halls of Congress" (Lappe). Millennials will be the face of this change. 

There are many things wrong with the American food system. A TEDtalk, "What's wrong with our food system", focuses on the mystery surrounding industrial farms and where exactly the food we eat comes from. GMOs, pesticides and confined animal feeding operations are not what ideal/picturesque farms are made of. The speaker, Birke Baehr, argues that if more consumers knew the risks of consuming artificial or unnatural foods, they would avoid them. If consumers know what is good and healthy for them to eat, they will want to eat it more. He specifically focuses on the millennial generation as the beacon of hope for the food system. More Millennials are becoming interested in 'greener' practices and a more whole diet. Everyone with a Facebook has seen horrifying videos of chicklets being ground up into chicken nuggets, diseased cows being forced into the slaughterhouse and "Tasty" videos encouraging quick and healthy meals. Social media, something particular to the Millennial generation, is a strong force in the organic consumer spike. 

The Millennial Food Movement

Health trends and Millennials have popularized stores such as Whole Foods and Trader Joe's, and have forced supermarkets to start carrying more natural and organic products. Large chains such as these help lower the price with bulk purchasing. In fact, Costco has become the biggest organic grocer in America. Costco's organic sales recently surpassed Whole Foods' with an annual profit of $4 billion. Large chains normalize the concept of organic foods and make them easily available, affordable and friendly to the average consumer. This also makes bodies, air, soil and farmers happier. The Millennial generation is starting to force large corporations to provide organic products due to high consumer demand. A specific example of this is Campbell soup company. In 2015, the brand introduced a line of organic soups and aired a commercial geared at those interested in the new products. Campbell, like many other US food companies, felt it was profitable to create an organic line due to more and more consumers seeking organic options, which they perceive as fresher, healthier, more sustainable and better for the environment. Eve Turow, in her book Generation Yum, claims "There is huge process being made and it's largely because the industry is seeing that Millennials are not going to be spending their money on processed foods" (Turow). The large movement towards healthier options, such as products labeled organic, natural, gluten free or GMO free, is because of Millennials desire to eat more naturally. Campbell's organic ad appeals to this new, health-driven market.

Technology has spurred Millennials interest in eating healthy and changing the food trends. Millennials post pictures of acai bowls, avocado toast and smoothies all over Instagram, while simultaneously pinning hundreds of food pictures on Pinterest. Eve Turow, in her book Generation Yum, believes that social media, such as Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook, fuels the large portion of the current food movement. She further claims that because of the allegation that Millennials are narcissistic because of self-branding, posts of foods to Instagram "show-off" something about the user, "There's a commodity fetishism around organic kale at this point because we're using it as an identifier. We're using it as a signal of education, of knowledge, of income" (Turow). Turow claims that social media food posts are used to gain popularity, to show off healthiness and a certain kind of knowledge and wealth. Social media helps convince others to partake in the healthy lifestyle and can give ideas on recipes, new restaurants and foods to try. The majority of Millennials have constant access to various forms of media everyday. This provides for an ongoing movement to healthy foods, farmers markets and new trends. Processed foods are becoming more concerning to this generation because they are branded as bad or unhealthy, which causes Millennials to second guess buying them. Social medias encourage whole, natural and healthy foods, which causes a high demand for freshness among this generation. Not only are Millennials choosing to eat and post healthier foods, but also increased interest in distribution and legislation has occurred. According to Turow, the obsession with the food movement spans over various outlets, "To me, its exciting that people aren't just eating and talking about their meals, but thinking critically about food policy, food distribution, food equality, food deserts, all that stuff" (Turow). Our generation cares about changing the way the world handles, cares and eats food. Because of the varying interests, this movement will be extremely influential and successful. 

The Millennial generation are foodies. If you look at the statistics from any social media site  --  Pinterest, Tumblr, Facebook, Instagram  --  the most popular categories are food boards and accounts. By eating healthier, living better and exercising more, we are showing off. We are narcissistic, want the next best thing and care solely about outward appearances. This is the exact reason the Millennial generation is changing the American food system. By becoming informed about the dangers of antibiotics and growth hormones used in meats, pesticides, GMOs and their affects on health, consumers will choose to buy organic products. The 'Western Diet' is not sustainable and has resulted in over 40% of Americans being classified as obese. Recent health trends have popularized stores such as Whole Foods and Trader Joes, but a new generation obsessed with 'healthy things' has brought organic products to general stores like Costco and Kroger. The Millennial generation will change the American food system because of their extreme connection with social media and the appearances they uphold. As a member of this generation, I testify to the statement that we may care too much about social appearances. I also know that more and more people my age are choosing to eat healthier and follow organic lifestyles, myself included. If this trend continues, which I know it will, we will all become more informed consumers and adopt a more natural, GMO-free and organic lifestyle. The Millennial generation will change the face of the American food system. 

