Food Unit Flashcards
What was the Green Revolution, who was involved, and why was it important? Were there any drawbacks?
The Green Revolution was the increase of grain/rice production in Mexico and India. It involved Norman
Borlaug. It was important because it lowered the price of food and increased the quality of living. The drawbacks were that
subsistence farmers suffered while large farms benefited.
What are the underlying causes of malnutrition?
Poverty and violence. Some people aren’t able to obtain enough food, conflicts can cause people to lose access to farms
Compare a meat-based and plant-based diet in the context of food efficiency.
A meat-based diet offers lots of protein and essential fatty acids. though you can’t get all the nutrients from it.
A plant-based diet has all nutrients, including protein, but b-12 supplements need to be taken.
Compare the environmental impact of eating different types of foods
Farming: bad farming deplete soil of nutrients, some crops can deplete fresh water sources,deforestation
Meat production: poor treatment of animals, overgrazing, overfishing, greenhouse gas methane from cow burps
How does the diet of people living in developed countries compare to that in less developed countries?
People in developed countries have access to more items that have protein, but less developed countries have little protein
What are some of the major pros and cons of GMOs?
Pros: tastier food, less food diseases, increased supply of food and longer shelf life, can have fewer pesticides
Cons: unanticipated effects on other crops and animals, transmission of GMO genes to wild plants and animals, increased antibiotic resistance
What is a food desert and what are some possible solutions?
Areas that have trouble getting access to nutritious and affordable food. Solutions start within the community,
meaning having local markets or community gardens. There are also food assistance programs as well.
What are the benefits of shopping at a farmer’s market? Can you think of a benefit related to society/people, one related to the economy/profit, and one related to the environment/planet?
Environment: food is fresh, and the carbon footprint lessens; Society:gives sellers the opportunity to grow their business
and sell their product to a wider audience; Economy: Supports local businesses and cuts down on prices such as shipping.