In America, we are plagued by an industry that wants nothing more than to profit: the food industry. And they have shown that they will do anything to accomplish this. The Washington Post, 2022, reveals that, on average, 60% of American calories consist of processed foods. While people may argue that this is because of the "American lifestyle," it is actually because less than a dozen companies control 80% of groceries (The Guardian, July 14, 2021). These include PepsiCo, General Mills, and Kraft-Heinz, to name a few. Not only do they control the majority of food, but every aspect of the food industry as well. Seeds, fertilizers, supermarkets, slaughterhouses, and farmers are controlled by these big food companies (The Guardian, July 14, 2021). They have formed a monopoly-esque institution that allows them to, virtually, do whatever they please. which includes raising food prices despite people struggling to afford it before.

Along with their monopoly-style tactics, these companies have created addictive foods. Through the use of months of consumer-based data, they have created products designed to cause you to have cravings, mindlessly eat, and feel hungry sooner after consumption. Through the use of MRI scans and other brain scans, scientists have also found countless pieces of evidence that these foods are causing reactions similar to those of drug addiction. Consumption of these processed foods activates the same parts of the brain as drugs, rewires the brain's reward system like drugs, and even causes withdrawal symptoms. While not as extreme as drug withdrawals, studies done on adolescents and children have shown that the lack of high-sugar consumption leads to an increase in headaches, irritability, social withdrawal, and decreases in motivation and ability to concentrate (Scientific American, September 11, 2023).

Why are we accepting this as normal? These companies are responsible for our livelihoods! Without them, millions of Americans would starve, and they are using that to their advantage! These companies need more regulations! These should include mandatory labeling of nutritional information, limits on harmful ingredients such as trans fats and high-fructose corn syrup, and all of the chemicals they utilize simply to save money (some of which have been found in plastic and antifreeze and are extremely toxic); limits on areas they can market to; and incentives for companies to produce healthier options.

By signing this petition, you're advocating for a future where healthy eating isn't just an option for those who can afford it, but for all Americans. Optimed Hospitalists, 2022, revealed that two-thirds of Americans suffer from a chronic health condition because of these foods! That number will only increase unless we act now because it will effect all of us one way or another! Please sign this petition today!