Notes from America with Kai Wright cover image

Notes from America with Kai Wright

The Radical Roots of Plant-Based Eating

Aug 14, 2023
Explore the historical roots and countercultural appeal of plant-based eating. Dive into the popularity of plant-based diets, ethical concerns, and the connection between plant-based eating and climate change. Learn about the influence of the counterculture era and the feminist vegetarian restaurant, Bloodroot Collective. Discover the impacts of fatphobia, diet culture, and wellness culture on veganism.
33:10

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Quick takeaways

  • Plant-based alternatives often overlook deeper issues within the food system, such as agricultural practices and labor conditions, and the focus should go beyond individual dietary choices to challenge agribusiness and industrial animal agriculture.
  • Plant-based eating has a rich history rooted in counterculture movements and social activism, with its origins in the rejection of the mainstream food system and its oppressive practices, and it is important to recognize its historical and sociopolitical context.

Deep dives

The Limits of Plant-Based Alternatives in Transforming the Food System

Plant-based alternatives, such as faux meat products, are being marketed as a sustainable and environmentally friendly choice. However, Alicia Kennedy, a food reporter, argues that these companies often overlook the deeper issues within the food system, such as agricultural practices and labor conditions. Many of these companies are still owned by big meat companies and promote ultra-processed plant-based products. While the availability of plant-based options is increasing, it is not leading to significant changes in the overall food system. Kennedy emphasizes the need for ecological and labor considerations in the food industry, rather than solely focusing on individual dietary choices.

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