How Your Life Stacks Up

11/11/2024

Image: Casey Zhang for The New York Times

As you examine this arrangement of foods, think about what it might represent or communicate about society, culture, or even personal choices. Consider how each element, from the ingredients to the way they’re stacked, could symbolize something larger.

The combination invites us to question our relationship with foods that often fill our plates in the name of convenience as a society and as individuals. This image says a lot about our culture when food is more about speed and survival than health and quality.

These foods, while accessible and affordable, are stripped of the natural vibrancy of fresh produce, representing how our priorities might lean toward the fast and easy rather than the sustainable and wholesome. This towering, mismatched meal reflects a culture that prioritizes instant gratification over thoughtful choices—a prompt to reconsider what we consume, why we consume it, and the impact those choices have on our lives and well-being.

Let's Write! Look closely at the eclectic mix of foods, then write about how this strange stack of ingredients could symbolize something about our society, habits, or values. Include what message you think this image could convey about consumer culture or our relationship with food.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. INCLUDE: Last Name, First Initial, AND Class Block. You do not have to include an email address or a website.

2. Respond to the post. Read the entire post, including watching any videos or reading any articles attached. Do not post vague or ambiguous commentary. Your post should have depth, be thoughtful, and provide specific, meaningful insight. Make sure it addresses the topic and encourages reflection, discussion, or a connection.

3. You MUST comment on at least TWO other posts from any student in any class. Your replies cannot be identical comments on different posts and posting shallow comments such as "I agree" or "I disagree" will earn you a zero. Make sure your reply addresses the comment that you are responding to.

4. Language. Do NOT use profanity. Vague or repeated responses will not be accepted in your post or replies.

5. Disrespectful comments will not be accepted and will result in a zero whether you do the assignment or not.

REMINDERS

**Set a weekly alarm or calendar timer. Whatever you do to remember other important events, I'd do the same for this assignment.

**Don't wait until the last minute. Telling me that you didn't do the assignment on Friday because you broke your leg, for example, on Thursday will not do anything for you when you've had a week. Be responsible and accountable.

**How to post. Click in the top right hand corner or the lower left hand corner where it says Comments to access the discussion board. Once there, scroll to the bottom of the page to post a Reply. After, choose comments from at least two students from any class and Reply to what they wrote.

CAUTION!! Do NOT embarrass me, yourself, your class, the English department, the school, your family or your upbringing with tasteless, meaningless comments. This is for a grade.

DISCLAIMER: If you do not respond AND comment on TWO others, you will not receive credit for this assignment. If you do not write your name correctly, and I don't see your work, you will not receive credit for this assignment. If you use profanity, you will not receive credit for the work. It's all or nothing.

WARNING: If you post even one second past midnight, your comment might appear to be posted, but as soon as it is opened to be graded, it will automatically delete.

Due Fri., November 15, 11:59 p.m. CST

Colocho J 6B

11/11/2024 03:27:06 pm

The image could symbolize the way that our society prioritizes convenience and speed over health and quality. We often choose to eat food or processed food because it is easy and affordable, but this type of food is not good for us in the long run. The image could also be a commentary on consumer culture, which often encourages us to buy things that are not good for us.

Divine Ojeh 8B

11/12/2024 11:54:51 am

Processed food is mostly eaten because its cheap and easy but its also unhealthy. We need to rethink about what we are consuming, and start making healthy meals so we can have positive benefits in our body.

Grant Z 4A

11/12/2024 03:39:37 pm

I agree all the prossed foods are having negitive effects on people like there moods and overall health. Yes its tasty and affordable but that's how they get you they don't care about our bodies as long as they get our money and we keep coming back for more. If we cared more then they wouldn't be in business.

jahlil .H 4A

11/12/2024 03:49:55 pm

i agree because some of the fast food places there food half of the time don't be real and people are starting to get sick but yet people don't care they still buy it cause its cheap and good

Vega F. 1A

11/13/2024 09:23:33 pm

I agree with you we need to start thinking about what we are consuming because it can affect us in the future with our health.

Carmouche K 1A

11/15/2024 11:44:02 pm

We all must consider our health when we choose our foods, but if you don’t have the time to cook a full meal or time to prepare it, you really have no other option besides quick food to feed their families, or even themselves

Gonzalez, J 4A

11/12/2024 03:50:42 pm

"I completely agree. The image serves as a powerful commentary on our society's values, where convenience and affordability often trump health and quality. The processed food industry's influence on our eating habits is staggering, and it's alarming to consider the long-term consequences on our well-being.

Kendell Hurrington 4A

11/13/2024 11:38:27 am

That's exactly the problem. Our long term health is never a priority and as long as we eat and are full for now, its all that matters.

Dralyn Stephens 4A

11/13/2024 09:12:22 am

I agree people buy fast food because its affordable but isn't healthy but they need to eat.

Kendell Hurrington 4A

11/13/2024 11:36:05 am

This is very true. big companies are always looking for way to produce more for less, and as long as its not immediately harmful to us, they wont care. Our health is not the main priority and due to the fact that they see so cheap, it's sometimes all that lower class families can have.

Lara, S 8B

11/13/2024 10:16:46 pm

I mean this food is not bad, this food could help someone from starving. This food is not "healthy" yes, but not every parent is making 30+ an hour and teens make the lowest $7.25 an hour not being able to afford much expense items which could be healthier. Kids that help their parents pay bills and take care of their siblings cannot afford "healthy" food especially large families or single parents. They either get what they can afford and have something in their stomachs or not have a meal that day.

Flores, A 4A

11/15/2024 06:03:54 pm

I agree not everyone can afford quality and healthy food and it's better that they be feed rather then them going hungry.

Smith R 8B

11/14/2024 01:43:07 pm

I agree, we often see promotions & deals on TV or social media that are viewed as appealing because of the low costs, but we are blinded by the affordability of low nutritional foods that affect our body & are definitely not good in the long run like you mentioned.

Smith S 8B

11/14/2024 03:54:45 pm

Processed food is convenient and affordable so its going to be a first option over anything else

Knowles K 1A

11/15/2024 11:27:10 pm

Thats where I think the problem lies, is that just because it is affordable and cheap doesn’t mean it’s good for you but because we have nothing else to eat we rely on the cheap food as our outlet.

Malvaez M, 1A

11/14/2024 09:56:25 pm

People do not take the time and realize that these processed foods will impact our health later on as we grow and should think twice about what we decide to put into our bodies.

Carmouche K 1A

11/15/2024 11:46:34 pm

We often think about short term pleasure, and in this instance that would be taste. Many people would think some fast food places are better that what they can cook. This is why some resort to quicker, unhealthier foods

Hayes T

11/15/2024 08:35:55 am

I agree with you the food in the picture is affordable but the food isn't all good for our health and something to eat all day.

Flores A 4A

11/15/2024 08:57:33 am

I agree, our culture has altered the way we consume products and that quick and cheap is better than dedicating time and more expensive.

Gonzalez D 8B

11/15/2024 11:48:46 am

I agree with you we often choose convenience over quality and eat whatever, we don't stop to think if it's healthy or not healthy. We let the price and how easy it is dictate what we purchase to eat.

Presas A 6B

11/15/2024 09:01:32 pm

It is true that processed food is often chosen because it's affordable and quick, but it does come with a long term consequences for our health. And I would agree with the point you have given about how society is prioritizing convenience over health and quality.

Devonte James

11/18/2024 10:07:44 am

i agree if we don't stop now in try in make a change to this major problem in some of are lifestyle nothing will never change

Kendell Hurrington 4A

11/12/2024 08:48:24 am

This image of various lunch and sandwich items causes my mind to think of a multitude of things. From the appeal of a "picture perfect" meal at the cost of Nutrients ,to the concept of conformity that is so prevalent in American culture. But the topic that we will delve into will be the topic of cheaper production for more product. its no secret that there are more wealthy and better circumstanced individuals in the world. from those who can afford to put a meal on the table each night , to those who have to fast food their dinner most nights. This image depicts various ingredients that world be used in a kids lunch box, specifically a kid who may be of middle class income. what's perplexing about that idea though is the fact that Theas are relatively cheap foods being sold for a dollar or so each, so why would a family that can afford to place better food in a child's lunch box resort to this cheaper alternative while those of a lower economic status deem it "too expensive"? Well there's only 1 answer, that being the media we take in. We are conditioned into thinking that having a pre made lunch like the ones we see in movies or shows is a "wealthy person thing" and that those who aren't living that life are able to afford it with a second thought. But in reality ,that's simply not the case.

Colocho J 6B

11/13/2024 12:14:22 am

Yes, it's better to just get what we can eat or not.

Torres. C 3/A

11/13/2024 11:52:49 am

I agree with the middle class statement, it hits personally close to home.

Luster J 3A

11/15/2024 09:53:43 am

I love how you took the approach of "we eat what we can" instead of the normal "Americans are so unhealthy" I feel like this really captures what this image is telling us about or relationship with food

Presas A 6B

11/15/2024 09:10:29 pm

In your response you bring up a really insightful point about how food choices often reflect larger issues like economic inequality and media influence of the way it's processed or cheaper foods are normalized as the go to option for many families highlights the systemic barriers that prevent access to healthier alternatives. I also thinks it's important to question why these perceptions exist and how they impact people's relationship with food. Especially when you mention of the media's role in shaping these ideas is relevant to what we see influences what we value an often that means prioritizing appearances over substance.

Devonte James 6B

11/12/2024 09:59:57 am

This image really symbolize the way that some people live there day to day life especially in the black community and it show how so people prioritizes there lives in the long run. A lot of people know that this type of food is not good for you at all but it is really affordable for most so they look past it and in the society we live in continues to promote these bad foods and place like Mickey D's and more. I think the image may convey to customers that oh this is cheap and affordable so let's get it.

Divine Ojeh 8B

11/12/2024 11:52:20 am

knowing the food is not healthy, they still buy it because its cheap and easy to access.

jahlil .H 4A

11/12/2024 03:53:12 pm

one day people hopefully realies what they are eatin and make there own food and eat healthy but people not gone understand unless they get food poisoning or ecoli

Johnson C 8B

11/12/2024 12:55:17 pm

Being able to quickly get something to eat without cooking

Gonzalez S 4A link

11/12/2024 03:39:35 pm

Eating unhealthy is a very good symbolization that the image could convey. I believe that this isn't just a problem in the black community it is more of an American problem as all races go through poverty.

Draly Stephens

11/13/2024 09:13:19 am

I agree mostly black people eat everything that is on the image because its most affordable and black people like to stay on a budget

Sanchez E, 3A

11/14/2024 07:49:47 pm

I totally get what you’re saying. It’s tough when healthier options are expensive, but junk food is so cheap and everywhere. It really highlights the need for better access to healthier options.

Devonte James

11/18/2024 10:17:59 am

I agree because we can get fresh fruit and vegetables for around the same prices or lower I suggest everyone goes vegan

Divine Ojeh 8B

11/12/2024 11:51:06 am

This image symbolize the way people sometimes eat things that are quick and easy, but not verygood for us. Its like we choose fast food over healthy food. This should remind us to eat more fruits and vegetables.

Johnson C 8B

11/12/2024 12:54:25 pm

knowing that fast food is not healthy, they still buy it because its cheap and quick .

Grant Z 4A

11/12/2024 03:37:16 pm

Absolutely fast food is cheap and quick however eating out all the time is bad for the body and cheap turns into a lot of money spent when you add it all up.

Colocho J 6B

11/13/2024 12:15:01 am

Eating greens always have to come first to be healthy and on the safe side too.

Torres. C 3/A

11/13/2024 11:55:05 am

I wonder, some of us (many of us actually) can't afford the food that makes us actually healthy. Which goes to show many coorperations do not care for many's wellbeing.

Lara, S 8B

11/13/2024 10:23:32 pm

These foods are quick and cheap but some people do not have a lot of time to spare and some do not have a lot of money to go buy ingredients and make a home made or "healthy" meal everyday. For some it is about the only thing they can afford. Also a lot of the time there is no choice in what food is in the kitchen or what parents bring home to eat. It could be a reminder from those who can afford other foods more healthier food but for some you either choose to eat what is in the kitchen or hope something "healthier" will come the next day.

Bronson M, 3A

11/14/2024 10:41:55 am

I agree, the foods in the image are cheap and easy to make but are not healthy. The foods are mostly known as struggle meals for how cheap they are. Kids don't have a choice when parents go buy groceries from the store. Parents get what they can afford and sometimes don't consider healthiness. Health is important to make your body strong and live longer. Its important to consider health before cost, but that doesn't work for all families.

rivera d 4a

11/14/2024 01:24:04 pm

i totally agree with you! its like we often go for fast food because its quick and easy even though its not for the best of us. This should really push us to focus on more fruits and veggies.

Smith S 8B

11/14/2024 03:55:42 pm

Most people send to eat out to avoid cooking.

Sanchez E, 3A

11/14/2024 07:48:23 pm

You’re right It’s easy to grab what’s quick, but it’s a good reminder that healthier options, like fruits and veggies, are so much better for us in the long run.

Hayes T

11/15/2024 08:39:28 am

I feel the same way we should stop eating all the bad food that's just laying around in the house and start eating healthier foods more

Luster J 3A

11/15/2024 09:55:04 am

I also thought about the fact there is no vegetables in this image and it made me see just how unhealthy we are eating

Gonzalez D 8B

11/15/2024 11:55:44 am

Yes I agree with you when you say people choose quick and easy foods completely ignoring the way it could be harmful to our bodies over time.

Johnson C 8B

11/12/2024 12:52:43 pm

The image can possibly symbolize the way that people prioritizes convenience and speed over health and quality. often choosing to eat food or fast food because it is easy and affordable, but this type of food is not good for us in the long run.

Garcia M 3A

11/13/2024 04:52:53 pm

Many of us cant afford supper healthy food products s we have to resort to eating what we can such as fast food or easy to make food .

Smith R 8B

11/14/2024 01:45:12 pm

There are definitely ways to make homemade food on a budget. Even with a few ingredients a nutritional meal can be made, people are oftentimes just lazy, that’s why it’s called “fast food” because it’s convenient.

Gonzalez S 4A link

11/12/2024 03:32:25 pm

This variation of foods could symbolize how in society these cheaper foods are what most american people consume in their everyday life. Most of the time these unhealthy items are what is more affordable and easier to consume. Making it why there are more obese people in poorer families.

Vega F. 1A

11/13/2024 09:21:33 pm

I agree with you most of the time this unhealthy food is what most people can afford because its cheaper and easier to get.

Knowles K 1A

11/15/2024 11:29:47 pm

Completely agree even though it may be unhealthy to some people that may be the only way the can eat and are able to afford

Grant Z 4A

11/12/2024 03:35:00 pm

Looking at the food options presented In the image most people have those items in their home,however don't really want that but it falls in the category of "There's food at the house" saying. To some this is a struggle mean or all some people know period and in general. It's cheap and afforable and easy to make, might even last you a few weeks depending on how you eat or how many mouths there are to feed. Some times we take for granted how much we have compared to others. We would rather spend money on foods that's not healthy and good for us to meet the wants and not the needs of our bodies.

Gonzalez S 4A link

11/12/2024 03:42:05 pm

This is very well said it gives us another understanding of how the image conveys what we already have in our own houses. I agree with your statement its very well made!

Gonzalez, J 4A

11/12/2024 03:48:03 pm

"You've added a critical perspective to this conversation. Yes, for many individuals and families, these food options represent a reality driven by affordability, accessibility, and convenience. It's essential to acknowledge that this is often a matter of necessity, not choice.

Barrientos S 4A

11/13/2024 09:17:15 am

Although the food that we get is not healthy or good for us, our body still needs food in order to live day by day, unhealthy food is not something we should want everyday because in the end we should worry about our well being.

Malvaez M, 1A

11/14/2024 09:54:39 pm

Not everyone's incomes and lifestyles are the same, some people are able to afford better food options while others only food options within their income which would be microwaved food or fast food.

Rodriguez Y. 3B

11/17/2024 11:40:05 pm

This makes a lot of sense in the sense that a lot of people build there homes in a "try to save money" type of way. Most goals at home are to spend as less money as possible, Cheapest items that you can hopefully use more than once of that you can make something out of it.

jahlil .H 4A

11/12/2024 03:45:14 pm

people often do that these day people rather to go to unhealthy fast food places and buy fake food then to buy and make ur on food from scratch

Gonzalez, J

11/12/2024 03:46:11 pm

"I couldn't agree more! The image of the tower of convenience foods is a stark reminder of our society's priorities. It's alarming to see how easily we sacrifice nutrition and sustainability for the sake of speed and affordability.

Your analysis highlights the pressing issues of consumer culture, environmental degradation, and cultural homogenization. It's crucial we recognize the impact of our daily choices and strive for mindful consumption.

What resonated with me most was the importance of preserving cultural heritage through traditional cuisine. Food is more than sustenance; it's a connection to our roots and community.

Rodriguez Y. 3B

11/17/2024 11:44:08 pm

I understand why its alarming to see someone labeled unhealthy foods as their everyday food choice, because its unhealthy but that pictures shows the present people tend to focus on the "right now" not on the future. That's because for some its easier to look at things this was to spend lets food and for them to taste it good even though in the long run, this isn't going to help.

Barrientos S 4A

11/12/2024 03:49:01 pm

Most Americans consume fast processed food, we consume it because it is the food that is most convenient and cheap for people. Some families cannot afford healthy foods, meals like that are what gets families fed. Although it is not what is best for us in the long run, people cannot just starve and not eat.

Bronson M, 3A

11/14/2024 10:37:08 am

I agree, Americans eat processed food because its cheap, quick, and easy. Families are on a budget and buy what they can like the food on the image. It's not what our body needs but it's enough to keep us from starving.

Dralyn Stephens 4A

11/13/2024 09:06:08 am

This image really symbolizes the way that some people live there day to day life especially in the black community and it show how so people prioritize their lives.This type of food is not good for us in the long run.

Torres C. 3/A

11/13/2024 11:51:49 am

The image of stacked food can be representative of how we prioritze time and pleasure instead of our own well being.

Garcia M 3A

11/13/2024 03:55:44 pm

I agree with how we prioritize time. We are here for a good time and not a long time. we never know when its our time to leave this earth.

younger, k 1A

11/13/2024 10:30:27 pm

I agree with this because we chose to eat something unhealthy just because it's quick to make when we can put in a little more time and help our well being and overall health.

Curlee A, 4A

11/16/2024 07:00:46 pm

Agreed, this all stims from a lack of responsibility, for oneself that is. I understand that some people have kids, and the convivence of getting terrible food is appealing when you deal with children, but in the long run, eating this sort of stuff wont do you any favors.

Garcia M 3A

11/13/2024 01:51:23 pm

The majority of Americans like to consume fast food or fast food products. We consume them because the food is cheaper and easier to acquire. Some households don't have a high enough income to afford healthier food. Even if fast food isn't the best for us humans, we can't go and starve ourselves.

Hayes T 8B

11/13/2024 03:11:13 pm

The image symbolizes about our society by how cheap the food is and how quick and easy the food is easy to make. The habits are that the food is not healthy and doesn't have good nutrition they just find things around the house because they don't wanna buy any thing expensive. I think this image conveys about our consumers that they are cheap people who doesn't like to to buy expensive food.

Castillo, V 6B

11/15/2024 05:41:47 pm

Yess it shows how quick and easy it is to make but it is not healthy.

Vega F. 1A

11/13/2024 09:20:05 pm

This image symbolizes how our society prefers what is cheap and fast even if it is not the best option for us, just because it's easier to get.

younger, k 1A

11/13/2024 10:29:16 pm

I agree with this because in our society today we are very lazy so we chose the quick to make and cheap way and it's not always the healthy route.

rivera d 4a

11/14/2024 01:20:25 pm

I dont disagree with you. As a society we do go for what is cheap and fast even though its not always healthier just because its easier.

Lara, S 8B

11/13/2024 10:07:43 pm

I think this image does not look wrong to anyone who just looks at it. For a lot of people those are normal items they see in their everyday kitchen. For this society with prices being high and these items being the most affordable I mean what's the harm? Either you buy affordable things and keep up with all your bills and expenses or you buy the healthier items costing more causing you to fall back on payments? Some families can barely afford that, so saying that kids do not care about what we eat, "Well being", or being unhealthy is not the case. People everyday choose to provide food for themselves and/or their families even if its not a 4 star "healthy" meal it is a meal in their stomachs preventing them from starving.

Lopez M 1A

11/14/2024 09:05:44 pm

The image can completely seem normal to those who just look at it. It's sometimes all people can afford in order to keep their families fed and still be able to afford anything else. It is sad that in today's society we have to choose between quick and easy food that can potentially be harmful to us overtime rather than healthier foods/ingredients that cost more and will probably continue to increase.

Nyamichaba, S, 6B

11/14/2024 10:47:03 pm

This was well said because you're right. A lot of people can't afford or don't have time to eat good healthy meals for themselves. It makes people want to choose the quick and cheap easy route so they can still survive. Either way both of the choices are bad and can be bad to their health in the long run.

Alvarez J 8B

11/15/2024 02:00:53 pm

yes the picture seems normal at first but of course it always goes deeper than that and in this case the food represents how families cant afford to be healthy and have a full stomach

Fuentez M. 3A

11/15/2024 09:20:39 pm

I really like how you said it represent how family’s can’t provide good quality food but the bare minimum to eat. As a kid I grew up with these kinds of foods and it does remind me of my childhood and what I used to eat. So this brings a lot of memories of what I ate. Usually poor parents this is what we would eat on a daily basis we barely had money to go out and buy fast food

younger, k 1A

11/13/2024 10:27:36 pm

I think this image symbolizes food that is cheap and quick and easy to make for people of low income.

Bronson M, 3A

11/14/2024 10:33:58 am

The image of unhealthy foods symbolizes the struggle foods that everyone eats or just quick meals. You can make many different meals with bologna, noodles, etc. Consuming this food is very unhealthy but most Americans don't care. If you're on a budget you buy these foods for various reasons. They're quick, go with many things, and satisfy your hunger.

rivera d 4a

11/14/2024 01:15:42 pm

This mix of foods shows how we go for convenience over quality. The processed items and lack of fresh produce highlight our preference for quick, easy meals instead of healthier options. This image makes us think about our food choices and their impact on our well-being. It encourages us to reconsider what we consume and why.

Sanchez A 3A

11/14/2024 03:09:43 pm

I agree that we do go for convenience rather than quality, like how we see something on social media of a combination of different things and wanting to recreate it whether it is bad or good for our body. They do impact our well-being because we are not aware that this will affect us in the future

Smith R 8B

11/14/2024 01:40:34 pm

This image symbolizes our country’s food culture just in one image. The food in the picture can be described as unhealthy, but this is common knowledge. We oftentimes promote processed foods like the ones shown in the picture and because of this we are placed #13 in the world with the highest percentage of adults with obesity. To many Americans this kind of food seems normal, but to other parts of the world such as Europe where they have restrictions on the ingredients allowed in their food, it is not normal at all.

Teniente J. 1A

11/14/2024 03:08:34 pm

I agree that many citizens have gotten used to that fast processed food is good but in reality it is not good at all. America is viewed as a state/country of obesity among the world. It is still getting worse overtime that we may not ever go back to good kept foods that our health will just get worse just because its fast and conventional to our stores.

Emmanuel Anukem 1A

11/15/2024 02:35:55 pm

I absolutely disagree on the ingredients part. We ban more chemicals in our food than Europe, and the idea that certain chemicals in our foods make us more obese is just wrong.

Fuentez M. 3A

11/15/2024 09:18:55 pm

I agree with what you say especially with the prt that it symbolizes that American is unhealthy. If you look at even little kids we are quick to lead to obesity by the wrong foods. America is suppose to be the best thing with good quality and everything . Our “good quality” isn’t found anywhere unless you are rich . That is why kids are more likely to become obese by the food choices they eat.

Cavazos N 6B

11/15/2024 11:27:04 pm

Unfortunately, Americans are not the only ones eating unhealthy, but the entire world is. Since 1990, obesity rates have doubled among adults and quadrupled among adolescents. Today roughly 39% of the world's population is obese.

Victorino H 8B

11/15/2024 11:47:18 pm

I agree as these foods have been a cause of obesity in adults and also the fact that we tolerate more things in our processed food ingredients because of how easy they are to make and buy for Americans.

Sanchez A 3A

11/14/2024 03:01:51 pm

This image creates a meaning of how our society has allowed these foods to be consumed knowing how bad this is for the population. If you go to places outside of North America you'll be introduced with more healthier food options and less greasy foods. We choose to eat these foods because it is good for our taste desires and not good for our body, similar to how we make decisions it might sound good but its not good in the long run.

Teniente J. 1A

11/14/2024 03:04:47 pm

I agree with how you are viewing the image, that America has actually used food that we have to live off of just to increase the economy rather than make it better. We live off of fast processed foods daily now where we are so used to it that this will affect our health bad overtime if we don't do anything about it.

Echeverria D 6B

11/15/2024 10:55:43 am

Your reflection on how food has shifted from being a source of health and well-being to a heavily processed product aimed at profit is quite compelling. It's true that this change has impacted the nutritional quality of our diets and the cultural significance of traditional foods.

Rodriguez R. 4A

11/15/2024 01:20:40 pm

I agree, people will value what they think is good for them and not choose the healthier option just because of the taste and looks.

Emmanuel Anukem 1A

11/15/2024 02:31:53 pm

I absolutely agree and I believe that we humans tend to consume foods that we get from our local grocery stores, without actually caring about what it does to our bodies in the long run.

Salazar J. 1A

11/15/2024 08:33:32 pm

I agree, with the current economy it is much easier for those who are low income to have access to fast food. It is something that could later affect us.

Frank Jimenez 6B

11/15/2024 09:53:54 pm

I agree with your observation. It's concerning how our society often prioritizes taste over health, leading to choices that can be detrimental effects on well-being in the long run. But people are drawn to the flavor which sometimes its reasonable to consume but doesn't always mean healthy. Some are reasonably healthy and some actually serve a good purpose in some circumstances.

Miles D 4A

11/15/2024 10:52:41 pm

i agree countries outside the U.S. have a very differnt food culture to americas and because of it a lot more people in those countries are healthier

Cavazos N 6B

11/15/2024 11:03:40 pm

Another reason why many people eat these unhealthy foods is because of how affordable they are and how reliable they are to get.

Teniente J. 1A

11/14/2024 03:02:01 pm

The image can represent multiple meanings on how you view it. In general it all shows negative impacts that America has done with our conventional foods over the years. At first food was easily taken care of and really went to the point of making it healthy. Now its gone to a point where its vastly processed where its really unhealthy so they can earn a buck on the market.Overtime the culture foods will lose it spark as well since many companies will turn it into fast processed foods which shows the US not caring about health protocols on what we eat.

Sanchez A 3A

11/14/2024 03:04:46 pm

I agree the culture foods will be replaced and turned into more processed foods that's where the saying come "home made food will always be better" because we don't add the extra stuff that makes the food bad. Now its just a bunch of combined foods from all around the place and calling it healthy or good for our body when it's not.

Lopez M 1A

11/14/2024 08:59:15 pm

Yes in general most people view it with negative impacts but sometimes it's all a family or an individual can afford during this day and age.

Nyamichaba,S,6B

11/14/2024 10:58:53 pm

Back then I feel like more people had the time to go home and make good healthy food for them and their family's. I say this because I noticed people are starting to pick up more shifts just to support them and their family but doing this barely leaves time to do anything. This leads people to depend on the fast and cheap route cause they save money and don't waste time cooking. on the other hand I do agree with you not many people are gonna know how to cook later on and the culture foods will loose its spark.

Hernandez M, 4A link

11/14/2024 03:24:13 pm

Our society values fast food because of its affordability and faster time to get their food;because of this fast foods have to be cheap to make, easy to maintain,and taste good. So because so many things are expensive and we need our money, people resort to the cheapest choice for their food. In a way this has become part of our culture and made companies like McDonald's,in-n-out, and sonic famous by media.

Echeverria D 6B

11/15/2024 10:54:00 am

People rather eat fast food because it less time to make food and want if your in a rush and easy for you but also the money can add up.

Smith S, 8B

11/14/2024 03:42:18 pm

The image symbolizes the food people consume just because its convenient and affordable. Not knowing or caring about what its doing to our bodies or health

Dilworth Z 6b

11/15/2024 09:30:15 am

yes its affordable so of course we are gonna pick the affordable one then the healthy expensive one

Rodriguez R. 4A

11/15/2024 01:13:35 pm

I agree, it's then tricking people and making them not realize what it is there eating.

Sanchez E, 3A

11/14/2024 07:46:23 pm

We’re all so used to picking fast, easy options without thinking about the impact. This really shows how much we need to make better choices for our health and future.

Tomas Ruiz 6B

11/15/2024 10:38:12 am

Yeah, healthier food choices are better for your body regardless of the price that you're paying for.

Lopez M 1A

11/14/2024 08:56:06 pm

The photo above contains foods that most people consume out of convenience but convenience is not always the healthiest choice. Yes that category of foods is relatively cheap and easy to store but majority of them have multiple chemicals that we don't know, as regular people, what they are. Overtime food like in fast food restaurants have quickly obtained a hold on our society making it harder for us to eat healtheir alternatives.

Thompson D, 8B

11/15/2024 05:36:43 pm

You're right. Convenience foods, while cheap and easy, often come with hidden chemicals and lack nutritional value. Fast food has become so ingrained in our culture that healthier alternatives often feel like a challenge

Castillo, V 6B

11/15/2024 05:44:16 pm

Yes the image shows a easy and quick food to make but it is not the healthiest choice.

Miles D 4A

11/15/2024 11:12:43 pm

I agree people tend to choose convenience over food that is better for them.

Malvaez M, 1A

11/14/2024 09:52:11 pm

Many people in our society live very different lifestyles, this picture shows how there are something that people may be able to eat and are blessed with a variety of healthy and organic foods to eat, while those unfortunate enough to not be able to afford healthier options for food, they are stuck eating unhealthy foods such as fast food, quick ramen, and many other unhealthy option. People in our society do not have the same opportunities of a better and unique life style such as those of higher class. low-income citizens tend to buy unhealthy foods because that is the only thing they are able to afford in order to not starve.

Salazar J. 1A

11/15/2024 08:31:07 pm

I agree, a lot of low income family eat more unhealthy food because it is much more affordable than healthy food.

Nyamichaba, S,6B

11/14/2024 10:43:23 pm

The image can symbolize so many things like us as human beings consuming a lot of quick meals or other things. What this image means to me on a deeper level is everyone is different, and they have a lot of stuff stacked on their plate. I don't mean eating wise what I mean is everyone has their own struggles and throughout their life they're are going to go through so much stuff. All of these different things tends to stack up on their plate and they have to deal with all of it.

Flores A 4A

11/15/2024 08:51:28 am

I feel like people value convenience and speed rather then price and healthy foods, in image a lot of these food are heavily proceed and or able to be prepared quickly, which the reason why people chose these food instead of any healthy alternatives that is because can be a multitude of reasons like budget and they cant afford any other types of food or because of time crunches and they don't have time to make a home cooked meal and rather have something that can be made in 3 minutes.

Dilworth Z 6b

11/15/2024 09:29:10 am

exactly getting healthy food is more expensive then getting unhealthy thats why our society chooses unhealthy

Dilworth Z 6B

11/15/2024 09:26:48 am

the different food mix food show how unhealthy our society, but the society is on budget and we choose unhealthy, because its more affordabe then the healthy food combinations

Tomas Ruiz 6B

11/15/2024 10:29:44 am

yeah, in today's time, fast food is regularly cheaper than making a good and healthy home cooked meal. regularly fast food usually cost around 15-25$ depending on where you go. But a home cooked meal with the protein, vegetable, and carbs will probably go around for 20-35$.

Luster J 3A

11/15/2024 09:47:02 am

The stack of ingredients symbolizes the bad habit of people moving too fast. Society has come to a point where we are always on go and we never really stop to think about what we do to our bodies. We value our time over our health giving us an unhealthy relationship with food. The message that we get from this is to reflect on our actions and think about what we put inside our bodies.

Tomas Ruiz

11/15/2024 10:22:13 am

Since the picture shows a mix of unhealthy and cheap food produce. I personally believe it shows how we as a society show quantity over quality with our food. in the supermarkets there are healthier and good quality produce, but the problem is, it's more expensive than the low and unhealthier produce.

Tomas Ruiz 6B

11/15/2024 10:23:12 am

I forgot the 6B part.

smith s 8b

11/15/2024 02:34:31 pm

I agree people rather spend most of their money on fast food because it is convenient for them

Thompson D, 8B

11/15/2024 05:35:49 pm

Exactly. In a world that values speed and convenience, we often sacrifice quality for what's quick and easy, losing sight of the deeper value of food.

Echeverria D 6B

11/15/2024 10:52:25 am

This arrangement of foods serves as a reflection on societal and personal choices regarding convenience versus quality. It highlights how we often prioritize speed and survival over health and sustainability. The accessibility and affordability of these foods, lacking the natural vibrancy of fresh produce, symbolize a preference for the fast and easy. This mismatched meal prompts us to reconsider our consumption habits and their impact on our lives and well-being.

Espinosa M, 3A

11/15/2024 07:08:24 pm

I completely agree with the idea that this arrangement reflects a culture of instant gratification. It feels like a metaphor for how we often sacrifice quality for convenience in many areas of life, not just food.

Gonzalez D 8B

11/15/2024 11:39:42 am

The items of food and the way the food is stacked symbolizes how society chooses processed foods due to how accessible and affordable they are. The convenience of them makes people choose it over their nutrition and health. It's just convenience over quality, these foods are a part of people's daily diet but not because they are healthy but because they are foods that can be prepared quickly and aren't expensive. Overall this shows us how people choose something that's easy instead of whats best for us they don't care what it is that they are putting inside their bodies as long as they eat then it's all they care for.

smith s 8b

11/15/2024 02:33:03 pm

I agree

Espinosa M, 3A

11/15/2024 07:08:58 pm

This critique of food culture raises an important point, but it also makes me wonder if affordability and access are the real drivers behind these choices. For many, this type of food is simply what fits their budget.

Rodriguez R. 4A

11/15/2024 01:03:59 pm

What this stack of ingredients could symbolize is about how nowadays society has a bad eating habit of choosing what takes less than 30 minutes to make, and makes us not value our body. The message this image could convey about consumer culture is that people decide to buy and eat what is most affordable and easy to make, just for the sake of them to have something in their body and is making them not realize or not care that consuming instant to make foods are bad for the body.

Frank Jimenez

11/15/2024 01:06:23 pm

The image of the electric mix foods stacked in a seemingly haphazard manner serves as a metaphor for the current state of our society s relationship with food. It symbolizes a culture that often prioritizes convenience and speed over health and quality.

Frank Jimenez 7B

11/15/2024 01:07:59 pm

Alvarez J 8B

11/15/2024 01:38:23 pm

The stacked food symbolizes how people would rather prioritize fast and easy food that's so processed its unhealthy instead of food that even if its a bit expensive it's still healthy and will allow the average person's life span to be extended.

Emmanuel Anukem 1A

11/15/2024 02:29:34 pm

This image helps me symbolize the events in my life and tells me that certain things that I’ve done in the past can affect what U do in the future. This image can display the fact that we eat a diverse array of foods from different cultures to frozen foods in our markets.

smith s 8B

11/15/2024 02:32:42 pm

I think this picture represents how people choose deli meats and noodles because its faster than cooking an actual healthy meal

Thompson, D 8B

11/15/2024 05:34:06 pm

This towering pile highlights how we often choose quick, cheap options over thoughtful, wholesome choices, driven by the demands of a fast-paced, consumer-focused world.

Victorino H 8B

11/15/2024 11:43:36 pm

I agree as the items in the image are usually something you can get quick in the store and that can also be produced fast.

Castillo, V 6B

11/15/2024 05:34:59 pm

This image symbolizes how we chose to eat something that is easy and fast to meet our needs since we are always busy with daily life activities instead of taking our time to prepare a more healthy dish. The message that conveys is that the image shows choices of food that are not considered a healthy option.

Espinosa M, 3A

11/15/2024 07:07:32 pm

This image and accompanying text highlight a deeper reflection on our cultural relationship with food. The depiction of highly processed, convenient items like ramen, cheese slices, and hot dogs suggests the prioritization of speed and accessibility over health and quality. It challenges us to think about the societal and individual choices that contribute to this dynamic, encouraging us to question whether convenience has come at the cost of long-term well-being and sustainability.

Salazar J. 1A

11/15/2024 08:28:59 pm

The photo represents food that our society tends to consume because it is cheaper and more accessible. Unfortunately a lot healthier foods are more expensive so we go for quick and cheaper options such as the picture above. These unhealthy choice of food could later lead on to health issues that society overlooks.

Galvez J, 3A

11/15/2024 11:46:35 pm

This definitely shows how much false advertising there is in the world.

Presas A 6B

11/15/2024 08:55:51 pm

The eclectic mix of foods in this image symbolize a culture that is driven by convenience and instance gratification that's reflecting preference for speed and efficiency over health and sustainability.The towering stack stripped of natural freshness and balance highlights how modern consumer habits prioritize quick and easy options at the expense of thoughtful nutrition choices.This imagery challenges us to reconsider our relationship with food and the values underpinning it the unnatural combination of ingredients conveys a disconnect between what we consume and the care we invest in our well being.

Fuentez M, 3A

11/15/2024 09:15:32 pm

When I looks at the photo of mixed foods the first thing I see is unhealthy foods that some have been called backed before. Call back meaning there were contaminated at some point. These foods are more on the side that they are not as fresh as we like them to be . The foods in the photo are seen to be easy foods to have in your home to not cook a big meal. Americans tend to cook unhealthy meals filled with chemicals and contaminated packaging rather then actually making a healthy meal. If you see students now a day we don’t eat healthy aswell. We eat ramen almost everyday because it’s something easy and simple . Even in our food option most humans choose to vote the easier way out . These foods are quick to make anyone sick. It’s the natural habitat that humans prefer the easier way out rather than passing thru the hardships and consequences.

Miles D 4A

11/15/2024 10:49:30 pm

this image symbolizes the unhealthy lifestyle that some people choose to live. The convience of processed foods have made people tend to choose that over food that is healthier for them; Afford ability and availibity have made these choices easy for a lot of peole especially in America where there are fast food restaurants on almost every street corner.

Galvez J, 3A

11/15/2024 11:24:15 pm

These companies are really scummy for playing off the unfortunate situations that some people are in. Making these foods highly addictive with sugars which could cause the less unfortunate people to spend more money on the product.

Curlee A, 4A

11/16/2024 06:56:40 pm

Completely agree, it's all a matter of convivence. As you said, there's a McDonalds on every corner. Why go out shopping, and cook at home when you can just buy McDonalds instead? It's not healthy at all, but it's quicker, more convenient, and cheaper depending on how much you spend. This mindset is why a lot of unhealthy foods, like the ones in the image, are so popular in America.

Cavazos N 6B

11/15/2024 10:55:34 pm

From the arrangement of foods that are presented to me, I see foods that are heavily processed and unhealthy but while also being affordable. These foods are made to be produced in the masses while having little regard for the consumer’s health. These foods are unhealthy due to their high amounts of sugars, salts, and fats, but they are often the only option people with low incomes can afford. This plays a role into society because people who are less fortunate will only be able to afford things that are not healthy for them.

Galvez J, 3A

11/15/2024 11:21:59 pm

The thing with this picture is that it adds healthy foods to make the whole meal look healthy. Although some of the ingredients are healthy the unhealthiness of the whole product outweighs most of the healthiness in the product. This is really unfortunate for people who are poor as they can only afford little, so eating something unhealthy could cause them to become over weight which could lead to poor people to spend a lot of money on more food.

Guzmán X

11/16/2024 07:33:41 am

You’re right—adding a few healthy ingredients doesn’t make an unhealthy meal balanced. For people on a tight budget, unhealthy options are often cheaper, leading to weight gain and long-term health issues. This highlights the challenge of accessing affordable, nutritious food. It's a bigger problem that affects both health and finances.

Knowles K 1A

11/15/2024 11:32:26 pm

Looking at the food options presented this represents what some people have to go through on a daily because they’re not able to go out and buy the needs that they actually need. To some people this is all they get cause this is all they’re able to afford.

Victorino H 8B

11/15/2024 11:41:42 pm

What i get from the stack of foods in the picture is that society likes to value food that is fast and convenient. Society tends to ignore the fact that the main reason these foods are fast and convenient is because of all the process they go through causing them to lose their natural vibrancy and become less healthy than other natural alternatives.

Guzmán X 6B

11/16/2024 07:34:59 am

You’re right—society values convenience, but processing takes away the health benefits of food. Fast foods might be easy, but fresh foods are healthier. It’s a reminder to choose natural options when possible.

Carmouche K, 1A

11/15/2024 11:53:03 pm

Accessible and affordable foods are not good for you in the long run, we know this and we always have. Still, we choose to ignore what we know and go to what we desire the most. Many times I hear people say that they are working out more often but they can’t loose weight, it starts in the kitchen. Many others would rather keep eating the foods they are used to instead of eating the foods they are supposed to eat in order to get to their goals they have in their plans.
So they would rather choose the order quick and eat quick option than plan out, and cook well done option in order to achieve their goals

Guzmán X 6B

11/16/2024 07:32:23 am

This stack of food highlights our culture’s focus on convenience over quality. The mix of processed, ready-to-eat items reflects how we often choose speed and affordability over nutrition and sustainability. It suggests that in our fast-paced world, we prioritize instant gratification, often ignoring the long-term impact on our health and the environment. The image challenges us to rethink our food choices and consider how they align with our well-being and values.

Esquivel. E 1A

11/18/2024 08:39:53 am

I agree with this, the nutrition in the foods that are displayed in the picture are very poor in nutrience. It may be good in the moment but it isn't good in the long run.

Curlee A, 4A

11/16/2024 06:52:14 pm

The foods in the image all have one thing in common, they're pretty cheap. The foods in the image are not only cheap, but they're also cheaply made and heavily processed. The cheese specifically reminds me of how uncanny modern food is. It's the result of sheer capitalism at it's finest, to the point where we disregard health for profit. Giving that slice of dull, fake, loveless cheese to some peasant in the 15th century would make them surely question the future of humanity.

Rodriguez Y. 3B

11/17/2024 11:52:10 pm

I see that the structure of this food choice is unhealthy as it is also displayed in the present. This structure is an example of how peoples lack of self control and unhealthy shapes structures like this food choice into something "good, normal, easy and helpful," the lack of understanding that although this food is unhealthy but it will save money is the downsize of some cultures. They believe their saving money while in reality their spending years of their lives and filling their bodies with more hospital bills as well as medicine, and unnecessary drug bills that could be avoided.However we decide to look at others and because everyone does it.. it seems to be okay for us to follow through. In addition to this because its not affecting us in the present we decide that it will be alright ignoring the consequences of the future.

Esquivel. E 1A

11/18/2024 08:36:35 am

I agree, eating these foods aren't healthy in the long run. It is difficult to eat healthy when some people just focus on the price.

Esquivel. E 1A

11/18/2024 08:35:09 am

The stack of foods symbolize bad and unhealthy habits. The values of our society are not in health but in convenience. The massage that this image convey's convenient and quick consumer culture not a health and quality focused society.

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Mixed Ink

Mixed Ink is our class blog, the window into our souls. It was designed to improve students' writing, critical thinking and communication skills by giving them a platform to provide meaningful content based on their interpretation of what they see.

Although the students receive a grade based on a rubric for completing this assignment, they are not graded on complexity of thought. This is a place where students of all levels can freely, confidently and creatively express themselves and their opinions in a nonjudgmental platform. They are required to respond to and critique each other, but degradation, slander, lewdness, etc., will not be tolerated.

Bridge Builders

All subjects are vital to learning, but English is the bridge of communication. So let's build the arch, one word at a time...

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Communicate effectively
Be aware of current events
Write concisely
Boost critical thinking skills
Be accountable
Follow directions
Have a voice about what goes on in the world around you