Meat mincers. Why what we eat can save our lives. And our world.

Authors: Giulia Innocenzi

Published: 2016

Publishing House: Rizzoli

ISBN: 9788817090155

Language: Italian

Giulia Innocenzi in her book is inspired by Jonathan Foer’s “If Nothing Matters” where she analyzes the issue of animal meat consumption, asking moral, ethical and practical questions. In doing so, the journalist conducted afield investigation in Italy, working alongside Animal Liberation Front activists in actions to denounce and liberate animals.

It is highlighted that many of the practices, both legal and illegal, are cruel and force the animal into unnatural reproductive cycles. The investigation raises doubts by highlighting the conflict between breeders and animal rights activists, which does not stop at physical aggression, but mainly involves livestock theft and extreme reactions aimed at protecting one’s assets. Thus, to document the reality, cameras have been smuggled in, reporting images that are very much at variance with the stories. Innocenzi also points to the disappearance of some native breeds that are being replaced with others that are more productive and suitable for intensive breeding, thus more adapted to confined spaces and stress.

After interviews, reflections and revelations that show the true side of this industry, the journalist concludes by saying that it is important to understand that the message of the book is not to make clear-cut food choices, such as choosing to switch to veganism, rather to review one’s eating habits, really relying on a Mediterranean diet based more on vegetables than anything else, and to become aware by reading, studying and listening. Finally, it also addresses companies by promoting a change in labeling in animal products for greater traceability and clarity.