American Meat (2013)
American Meat is a solutions-oriented documentary chronicling the current state of the U.S. meat industry. Featuring Joel Salatin, Chuck Wirtz, Fred Kirschenmann, Steve Ells, Paul Willis, and farmers across America, it takes an even-handed look at animal husbandry. First explaining how America arrived at our current industrial system, the story shifts to the present day, showing the feedlots and confinement houses, not through hidden cameras but through the eyes of the farmers who live and work there. From there, the documentary introduces the revolution taking root in animal husbandry, led by the charismatic and passionate Joel Salatin. Stories are shared of farmers across the country who have changed their life to start grass-based farms, and everyday solutions highlight actions people can make to support America's agriculture.
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Just saw the premier of American Meat in Joel Salatin's home county in Virginia. This documentary gives a good introduction for anyone not familiar with the current farming practices associated with raising chickens, beef, and pigs. A good portion of the film is spent with farmers in Iowa, North Carolina, Washington, Virginia and several New England states - hearing how they raise their animals and the obstacles they face as commodity farmers.Alternative ways of raising animals (other than confinement) are explored with an eye toward a big question - "Can these methods feed the world?" This question is adequately addressed in the documentary and leaves the audience with a clearer view of what's possible. In a mostly non-judgmental approach, the director explores how animals are grown, processed and marketed in America.