The key insight is this: these companies have learned that when they proudly display the message of “Reduced Sodium” (or some similar valid claim) on their product, sales for the SKU (stock keeping unit) promptly and invariably plummet. Why? Because while we all love to give lip service to the evils of improper diet, the vast majority of Americans are not receptive to be told that they are about to sacrifice an enjoyable meal or snack for a bland, “healthier” product. Therefore, we have the Whole Foods establishments to cater to one crowd, and McDonalds to cater to the other. (By the way, these groups are not mutually exclusive and there is quite a bit of overlap.)

To your point, this is why capitalism exists and freedom of choice has made us the outstanding and varied country that we are. Just remember, the next time you don’t like what’s on your plate, don’t condemn the waiter for bringing what you ordered.

I can say also that before I married Carly I was shopping for food that I could make quickly and that Naomi would eat without fighting me. I was no victim, but I really did not know the extent to which I was putting horrible crap into our bodies. Now in my case what I was really in need of was an education about food (which Carly gave me in abundance), but I can’t help but feel an incredible, paternalistic even, sense of compassion for the kids who I know get fed crap at school and worse crap at home.

This is one of those rare issues, where I almost feel myself drifting left. HELP!!!!