Be afraid, beef industry. Be very afraid.

I recently read yet another article concerning the beef industry and its control-freak hold on Americans. Fear of a Vegetarian Planet: Why the Beef Industry is Freaked Out by a Kids' Contest is a perfect example of the misguided nutritional information that is being fed to us. The beef industry, as well as the dairy industry, have poured millions of dollars into the government and advertising campaigns touting the nutritional importance of their products.


Advertising campaigns like "Beef, It's What's for Dinner," "Got Milk?" and the oddly popular series of celebrities sporting milk mustaches have lulled Americans into a comfort zone with these products, making them think they must consume more beef! more milk! Apparently it's healthy and all the celebrities are doing it. But these advertising campaigns are just that - advertising. The industries paying for these ads are not truly concerned with the health of the consumer. As is the goal with any advertising, the main concern is that the consumer will buy more of their products.


I commend Michelle Obama's campaign for healthful meals, especially in school lunches, as obesity is rapidly reaching epidemic proportions in this country. Despite what the National Cattleman's Beef Association has to say about it, I guarantee that more healthful meals for our children will include far less beef and dairy products, not more.


For further reading, a NY Times article on "Dairy Management," a branch of the USDA and its marketing strategies to convince Americans to eat more cheese.  This is the same organization that released the campaign connecting increased dairy consumption to weight loss. The science behind their claims was soon found to be faulty, causing them to scrap the campaign.

fun with vegetables

Here's a group that gives "playing with your food" a whole new meaning.

The Vegetable Orchestra - home

World Vegan Day

Happy World Vegan Day, everyone! November 1st marks this celebration of veganism and is the kickoff for World Vegan Month. A vegan diet is healthier and more environmentally sustainable - not to mention healthier for animals too! How does one celebrate World Vegan Day? The black sheep recommends (and dined on) whole wheat spaghetti marinara with fresh basil, salad with balsamic vinagrette, and fine red wine. Cheers!