Fast Food Nation: Introduction

1. How does the amount spent on fast food compare with the amount spent on other things in our society?

- Americans spend a great amount of money buying fast food than buying important things such as computers for a better education. "In 1970, Americans spent about $6 billion on fast food; in 2001, they spent more than $110 billion. Americans now spend more money on fast food than on higher education, personal computers, computer software, or new cars." (pg. xvi)

2. Why is fast food worth studying?

- Fast food is worth studying because it is important to know what you are consuming. It might taste good, but it is extremely bad for your health. Fast food companies do not tell you the ingredients their food contains. "But the steady barrage of fast food ads, full of thick juicy burgers and long golden fries, rarely mentions where these foods come from nowadays or what ingredients they contain." (pg. xxi)

3. Where is the hearth of the fast food industry?

- The hearth of the fast food industry is southern California. "An industy that began with a handful of modest hot dog and hamburger stands in southern California has spread to every corner of the nation, selling a broad range of foods wherever paying customers may be found. (pg. xvi)