Concentration and Power in the Food System: Who Controls What We Eat?, Revised Edition

Dominant corporations control our food systems, reshaping society to increase their power. This study explores how opposition has encouraged positive changes, but also examines the potential of technologies to reinforce or challenge the power of the largest firms.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 07 October 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This book delves into the intricate web of control that dominant corporations wield over contemporary food systems, spanning from supermarkets to seed industries. It uncovers their strategies to reshape society, targeting vulnerable segments such as recent immigrants, ethnic minorities, and those of lower socioeconomic status. While these trends may seem inevitable, this study highlights the resistance and efforts of microbreweries, seed-saving networks, and other opposition movements. It explores how these challenges have prompted even the most powerful firms to adopt small but positive changes. This revised edition has been updated to reflect recent developments in the food system, including the broader political and economic forces that shape it. Additionally, it examines the rapidly evolving technologies, such as Big Data and automation, which hold the potential to reinforce or challenge the power of the largest firms.

Dominant Corporations' Control Over Contemporary Food Systems

Dominant corporations have exerted a profound control over contemporary food systems, exerting their influence from the supermarket to the seed industry. Through a range of strategies, these firms aim to reshape society to further consolidate their power, particularly targeting vulnerable sections of society such as recent immigrants, ethnic minorities, and those of lower socioeconomic status.

One of the key strategies employed by these corporations is the consolidation of power in the food supply chain. By controlling the production, distribution, and marketing of food, they can dictate prices, quality, and availability, ultimately shaping consumer preferences and behavior. For example, large supermarket chains can leverage their size and purchasing power to negotiate favorable terms with suppliers, resulting in lower prices for consumers. However, this consolidation of power can also lead to reduced competition and limited choices for consumers.

Another strategy used by dominant corporations is the promotion of processed and convenience foods. These foods are often cheaper, more readily available, and easier to prepare, making them appealing to busy consumers who prioritize convenience over health and nutrition. However, these foods are often high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, contributing to a range of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

Dominant corporations also play a significant role in shaping government policies and regulations related to food. Through lobbying and political contributions, they can influence the drafting and implementation of laws and regulations that favor their interests. For instance, they may advocate for policies that promote the use of genetically modified crops, which can increase yields and reduce the need for pesticides, but may also raise concerns about food safety and environmental impact.

Furthermore, dominant corporations have used their power to influence public opinion and shape consumer attitudes towards food. Through advertising and marketing campaigns, they can create a perception that their products are healthy, safe, and convenient, leading consumers to choose their products over those of their competitors. This can be particularly effective in targeting children and adolescents, who are more susceptible to marketing messages.

Despite these challenges, there are efforts underway to counter the control of dominant corporations over contemporary food systems. Microbreweries, for example, have emerged as a response to the consolidation of power in the beer industry. These small-scale breweries offer a wider range of beer options, often with higher quality and more innovative flavors, challenging the dominance of large breweries. Similarly, seed-saving networks have emerged to promote the preservation and diversity of seeds, ensuring that farmers have access to a wide range of crops and reducing the reliance on patented seeds controlled by large corporations.

In conclusion, dominant corporations have exerted a significant control over contemporary food systems, shaping society, consumer preferences, and government policies in their favor. While these trends may seem inevitable, there are ongoing efforts to counter these control mechanisms, from microbreweries to seed-saving networks. It is essential for consumers, policymakers, and businesses to be aware of the power of these corporations and to work towards creating a more equitable and sustainable food system.

Weight: 376g
Dimension: 157 x 234 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350183070