Pet Food Politics: The Chihuahua in the Coal Mine
By Marion Nestle
University of California Press 2008.
By Kate Barkman
Pet Food Politics chronologically details the pet food recall of 2007. Although the dying pets affected in this recall were documented across the U.S., the root of the problem occurred globally.
The book slyly takes the reader from the pet food recall into global issues of trade, sanitation, and ingredient labeling from pet food to human food. The transition of topics is smooth and well researched.
Politics may detract some readers, but the title is truly deceiving. Nestle unfolds the events of the March 2007 pet food recall while discussing the politics of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For example, the FDA lacks the authority to demand a food recall. A company is only asked by the FDA to voluntarily recall food. This is the extent of FDA’s power. This deficient authority caused countless pet deaths. Why? The FDA knew pet food was contaminated and could not speak out.
Nestle did an outstanding job on resources. Because the incident occurred in many private companies information and interviews were hard to come by. Nestle dug deep and found much research about the contaminated compound as well as people willing to speak off the record.
The writing technique used in this book is clear and concise. Nestle does not waste time painting an elaborate picture. Instead, the facts awe and shock. Nestle mentions that pet owners consider their animals as children and this fact alone causes this book to be upsetting. People will be outraged knowing that the FDA, no matter how helplessly shackled by current laws, knew contaminated food was being sold.
Nestle’s most accrediting feature is her research in human nutrition and previous works. She has her doctorate in molecular biology and her master’s in public health. Along with her education she has worked in public policy and clinical settings. This impressive resume meshes, bringing together a well-researched book.
Pet Food Politics is a compelling book bringing into light the pet food recall and the food safety of the nation in general. Because she offers significant research it is hard not to agree with Nestle’s thesis. Short and sweet, this book is a quick read that plays on emotions. If the reader closes the book, feels outraged and demands change, then Nestle has accomplished her goal.
