Rebecca B. reviewed on 6/5/2022 + 13 more book reviews

This was a very strange book to read/listen to. Although I had some idea of the issues Olmstead was talking about, I had no clue of their pervasiveness. Yet, Olmstead appeared overly angry and concerned about some of the products he discusses here. I doubt anyone really thinks that California champagne comes from France. Also a moment's reflection would suffice to realize that the powdered parmesian cheese in plastic containers that we consume is not actually from Parmigiano Italy. I was interested to learn that it is next to impossible to buy Kobe or Wagu beef in the USA but then again why would I really care? Olmstead gets himself worked up over these issues. Sure, they are good facts to know, but not enough to get upset about. However, when fraudulent vendors and purveyors substitute, say, one type of fish or seafood for another, it may trigger dangerous allergies. He also talks about times in the past when people were killed by consuming tainted or adulterated food and drink. Will I change my habits after reading this book? Probably not. But I am interested in trying the genuine Parmesano-Reggiano cheese that he writes about and also pictures on the cover. Worth the time to read if just to experience the passion of the author for these authentic products and his disdain for the fakes.

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