Unwary Consumers Essay Example

Meanwhile, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), responsible for overseeing multiple beef companies and other occupations, has assigned a cost of $480 per fatality when penalizing these organizations (Schlosser 178).

$480 - is this the price tag on a human being? It's hard to fathom how OSHA, or anyone for that matter, could assign a value to human life. This idea is both heartbreaking and absurd. The value of a person is immeasurable - what about their emotions, intellect, intuition, and contributions to society? As consumers, we should consider what we're supporting: a profitable business that caters to America's love of fast food or an organization that puts a price on a person's life. Unfortunately, poor working conditions often lead to bacteria in meat, particularly beef. Schlosser believes that the fast food industry isn't doing enough to ensure the safety of the food they serve.

Within Schlosser's novel, various cases are highlighted where individuals have fallen seriously ill or even lost their lives due to consuming meat that has been contaminated with the Escherichia coli 0157:H7 virus, also known as E. coli, and other dangerous bacteria. Shockingly, Schlosser provides troubling facts about the beef that we commonly consume and offers a straightforward explanation as to why hamburgers in particular can now pose such serious health risks: "There is shit in the meat". This deliberate disregard for safety and well-being of consumers is truly alarming.

The motive behind their actions is to increase their profits, even though it puts numerous lives at risk (197). Six-year-old Alex caught the E. Coli virus in July 1993, which caused him to experience intense abdominal cramps resembling labor pains and eventually resulted

in bloody stools. Despite attempts by doctors to save his life, the Shiga toxins were damaging his internal organs.

The author ate at a McDonald's over a year ago and ordered a number one meal which consisted of a Big Mac, French Fries, and a Coke. While eating, it was realized that McDonald's acknowledges that their fries contain flavor from animal products. Furthermore, it was revealed that the author looked at their meal halfway through and discovered that he died a day after his mother's birthday (Schlosser 200).

After observing a suspicious object in my burger, resembling a human toenail, I was appalled and immediately discarded my meal without notifying management (Schlosser 128). However, upon reflection, it is plausible that what I witnessed was an animal toenail. "Fast Food Nation" has generated indignation within me towards the operations and sourcing methods of fast food eateries. It is unsettling that successful chains would peddle subpar meat to their patrons at a premium price.

Despite the frequent occurrence and potential for serious illness, consumers have a right to know the contents of their food even if hidden dangers exist. While some visible risks may be disregarded, there are also unseen hazards that could pose health threats. By regularly consuming meats from fast-food chains, individuals compromise their overall well-being.

According to the author, if consumers were aware of the source and production methods of fast food restaurants, they would likely discontinue their patronage. This puts both consumer and worker health at risk in order to prioritize profit over safety. The author reflects on their own preference for McDonald's and acknowledges Schlosser's argument that manipulative advertising targeted at children is a contributing

factor.

Consider this: have you ever known a child to compliment the flavor of a burger? Unlikely, as it is the inclusion of toys with Happy Meals that appeal to children. This tactic is utilized by McDonald's as a marketing strategy aimed at creating lifelong customers. From my own experiences as a child, I recall eagerly anticipating the arrival of each new toy with every visit to McDonald's. We unknowingly agreed to an unspoken agreement with the company that has lasting effects on our consumer behavior. In essence, we were deceived and manipulated.

According to Schlosser (198), parents are not aware of the actions of fast food industries, except for the fact that McDonald's offers affordable and convenient food that is suitable for children. However, to maintain customer loyalty, business executives and managers have prioritized increasing profits and reducing costs, even at the expense of worker safety (Berry 131). Schlosser suggests that the government should exert greater control to address issues like working conditions and corporate greed as a solution to these and other related problems.

The government should step in to safeguard employees' rights, promote labor unions, and prioritize safety training. Many deem standing up against major corporations as daunting, but it isn't. Who is backing them financially? Who is their consumer base? We are! As long as we sustain their goods, they will continue with business as usual. Boycotting can bring about change by compelling them to alter their flawed practices. Congress enacted safety regulations to shield children from exploitation and safeguard laborers from harm. However, these policies remain unenforced, owing to the companies' clout.

Managers of major fast food chains such as McDonald's are still profiting

by enticing children to consume their food. The fast food industry can be compelled to alter the way food is sourced and produced if consumers cease purchasing their products. To promote a shift in America's mindset and behavior, we must first resist fast food conglomerates by abstaining from consuming their offerings and disseminating this message across the country. Whether through television, promotions, or demonstrations, we must hold food corporations accountable for their actions.

Eventually, these companies will succumb to consumer demands. As the supporters, Americans should not tolerate fast food companies exploiting them for profit. It is crucial to recognize their wrongdoing and halt their actions immediately. The industry has exceeded reasonable bounds and jeopardized the country's welfare, prompting an urgent cessation.