Fast Food and Junk Food

Like many Americans, Smith (food studies, New School U., New York) began his love affair with junk food, fast food, and soft drinks in childhood. In what is introduced as an expanded edition, the now-reformed author introduces historical trends in the production and consumption of a diet that is contributing to global health and environmental problems. In this source of balanced information on the topic, volume 1 covers "A&W" (fast food restaurants) to the "Just Born" (candy manufacturer), and includes a chronology since 1783. Volume 2 spans "Carl Karcher" (namesake of Carl's Jr.) to "Zotz" (fizzy candies), and includes a resource guide and master index. Both volumes feature a list of entries, list of entries by topic, further references, illustrations, and a glossary. Annotation c2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Andrew F. Smith teaches food studies and professional food writing at the New School University, New York, NY.