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Big Chicken

The Incredible Story of How Antibiotics Created Modern Agriculture and Changed the Way the World Eats

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Big Chicken

Written by: Maryn McKenna
Narrated by: Xe Sands
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About this listen

In this eye-opening expose, acclaimed health journalist and National Geographic contributor Maryn McKenna documents how antibiotics transformed chicken from local delicacy to industrial commodity - and human health threat - uncovering the ways we can make America's favorite meat safer again.

What you eat matters - for your health, for the environment, and for future generations. In this riveting investigative narrative, McKenna dives deep into the world of modern agriculture by way of chicken: from the farm where it's raised directly to your dinner table. Consumed more than any other meat in the United States, chicken is emblematic of today's mass food-processing practices and their profound influence on our lives and health. Tracing its meteoric rise from scarce treat to ubiquitous global commodity, McKenna reveals the astounding role of antibiotics in industrial farming, documenting how and why "wonder drugs" revolutionized the way the world eats - and not necessarily for the better. Rich with scientific, historical, and cultural insights, this spellbinding cautionary tale shines a light on one of America's favorite foods - and teaches us the way to safer, healthier eating for ourselves and our children.

©2017 Maryn McKenna (P)2018 Tantor Animal husbandry Biological Sciences Environment Science Social Sciences Food Science Animal Agriculture
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What the critics say

"In this well-written exposé, McKenna (Superbug) dissects the controversy of the routine use of antibiotics to fatten chicken, which has led to the rise of drug-resistant bacteria.... Throughout, McKenna offers spot-on commentary on the dangerous additives in chickens and concludes on a relatively hopeful note." (Publishers Weekly)

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Better than the average 5 star

I’ve repeatedly listened to this book. It’s eye opening every time. The narrator does an excellent job, possibly a bit dramatic for my taste but a solid 9.5/10. Content reflects the time and effort of the author. Since tip of the hat for providing a factual acount of the past and sampling the extremes of the chicken business. Truly worthwhile information about the long history (in modern terms) of antibiotic resistance, it’s recognition, study and legislative inaction through the decades. Thank you for such an easy worthwhile listen.

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