Is Fast Food The New Crack?

From Frugivore – For approximately three decades, the crack epidemic has ravaged urban communities. As the drug kills family members, depletes the health of neighbors, incarcerates men, and leaves children to fend for themselves, it’s no wonder that black communities have declared it lethal. While the use of crack has died down significantly, it’s still sold on every street corner in the hood. All you need is a number to call or the right person to know; you can get your fix. Arguably, crack cocaine has benefited a few families, as local drug dealers profit off this underground market. But as the “War on Drugs” hasn’t fixed anything, other addictions have taken root in these same spaces.

While it feels like a stretch to compare fast food to crack cocaine, consider its easy access, cheap price, and health impact; you’ll notice jarring similarities. As fast food chains have transformed into community staples, it’s rare that you walk a few blocks in an urban community and not encounter one of the popular eateries. Pop Eye’s, McDonald’s, Burger King, KFC, you name it. These establishments happily convert impoverished communities’ dependence on cheap food to fast food addiction. For many families, fast food is not a luxury or a simple once-a-month treat. Instead, it’s a quick breakfast, daily lunch, or makeshift dinner for adults and children. As fast food becomes a lifestyle, there’s certainly much to fear.

(Continue Reading @ Frugivore…)