Questions: Food & Beverage

I'm not sure if Americans know the truth about agri-business.

Ethanol manufacturers use about 40 percent of the U. S. corn crop for ethanol and related co-products, with the majority of the ethanol being consumed in the domestic transportation fuel market.

Since the creation of the domestic market for corn ethanol after the energy crisis of the 1970s, the federal government has given away a steady stream of subsidies. Originally sold as a way to achieve energy independence and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, ethanol has been a favorite of policymakers from the Corn Belt. Ethanol producers have received favorable treatment under the tax code, tariff protection from foreign competition, a government mandate for its use, infrastructure subsidies, and more.

As a result, taxpayers have spent tens of billions of dollars over the last 40 years subsidizing the mature biofuel. Decades of subsidies have failed, however, to reduce climate risks and serve as a bridge to next-generation, non-food-based biofuels, while spurring several unintended consequences, wasting taxpayer dollars, and distorting markets.

As concerns, food, American farm subsidies have negative environmental effects. By encouraging the overproduction of certain crops, subsidies can lead to the use of more pesticides and fertilizers. Additionally, heavily subsidized corn is used to produce unhealthy processed foods which are cheaper and less nutritious which has a multiplier effect that further contribute to the obesity epidemic.

Another way in which corn subsidies raise prices is by setting minimum prices for certain crops. The government often sets a minimum price for corn that is higher than what would be considered the market price.

In effect USA Americans are subsidizing corn conglomerates AND raising the prices of corn derived products - hitting themselves in the wallet twice so huge agri-business conglomerates can rake in yet more profits.

🌽 is also a substitute for porn (duh)!

Whats the best and worst fast food between them all, and why?