Summary Of Don T Blame The Eater

Are fast food restaurants really at fault for the growing problem of childhood obesity? In David Zinczenkos’s essay titled “Don’t Blame the Eater” he goes on to argue that yes indeed they do contribute to this rising trend. In his argument he warns that while each person is responsible for their own food choices, the food industry certainly is not making it easier for consumers to make healthier choices. His purpose in writing this essay is very clear as he tells the story of his earlier life when his parents split up and his lunch and dinner meals came from the closest and cheapest fast food he could find. The ease of access, misleading food labels, and abundant advertising are all points that are brought up to support his purpose in how it’s not entirely the consumers fault for the rising obesity rates associated with fast-food. …show more content…
For example, in the essay we read about one of the instances he reasons through; “where, exactly, are consumers—particularly teenagers—supposed to find alternatives? Drive down any thoroughfare in America, and I guarantee you’ll see one of our country’s more than 13,000 McDonald’s restaurants” (242). The author made a point to target all varieties of audiences and explain that teenagers are not the only age group that falls into the trap of fast-food when he said, “And the problem isn’t just theirs- it’s all of ours” (242). Although the simplicity of fast food may mainly appeal to teenagers, the lifetime consequence of obesity is everyone of all age’s problems. The abundance of fast-food restaurants and lack of healthier alternatives, a situation induced by industries not consumers, should be a concern to