Meaning: This quote by Michael Pollan, an American author, journalist, and activist, succinctly captures the essence of the modern food system and its reliance on corn and soybeans. In this quote, Pollan highlights the central role of these two crops in the production of cheap energy and protein, which in turn has led to the proliferation of inexpensive fast food.

Corn and soybeans are indeed cornerstones of modern agriculture and food production. Corn is a highly efficient source of energy calories, primarily in the form of carbohydrates. It is used not only as a food staple in various forms such as cornmeal, corn flour, and corn syrup, but also as a major component in animal feed, industrial products, and biofuels. The widespread cultivation of corn in the United States, often in monoculture, has led to its abundance and low cost, making it a ubiquitous ingredient in processed and fast foods.

Similarly, soybeans are valued for their high protein content, which is essential for human and animal nutrition. Soybeans are processed into various products such as soy milk, tofu, and soy protein isolates, and are also a key component in animal feed, particularly for livestock in industrial farming operations. Like corn, the efficient production and processing of soybeans have contributed to their prevalence in the food industry, particularly in the form of inexpensive protein sources.

The "food system" referred to by Pollan encompasses the entire network of processes and infrastructure involved in the production, processing, distribution, and consumption of food. This system has been heavily influenced by the industrialization and commercialization of agriculture, which has prioritized efficiency, scale, and cost-effectiveness. As a result, the food system has become highly reliant on the mass production of corn and soybeans, leading to the widespread availability of cheap ingredients that form the basis of many fast food products.

The implications of this food system are far-reaching. The abundance of cheap corn and soybeans has facilitated the production of highly processed, energy-dense, and often nutritionally poor foods, which are emblematic of the fast food industry. These foods are often high in calories, saturated fats, and added sugars, and have been linked to various health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Furthermore, the intensive cultivation of corn and soybeans has significant environmental impacts, including soil degradation, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity. The reliance on monoculture and the heavy use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides associated with these crops have contributed to environmental degradation and ecosystem disruption.

In conclusion, Michael Pollan's quote sheds light on the interconnectedness of the modern food system, the dominance of corn and soybeans within it, and the resulting prevalence of cheap fast food. It serves as a call to reevaluate the current food system and consider alternative approaches that prioritize nutritional quality, environmental sustainability, and social equity. By understanding the implications of our reliance on these crops and the foods derived from them, we can work towards creating a more diverse, healthy, and sustainable food system for the future.