A french fry’s life starts as a potato. They are real potatoes growing in real fields. They were dug up and taken to a facility who cleaned all of the mud and dirt off of them.
This activity has social impacts on the world. There are real farmers growing these potatoes. They plant the seed, fertilize and water the seeds and they dig up the potatoes. This is their job. They provide for their families with this job; they are able to use the money they make to buy food, water, shelter and other needs.
Farming is an interesting part of the chain because so many aspects of the world come into play. Climate, weather, location, soil, water, etc. are all aspects of farming that can effect it negatively or positively. Too much rain can cause fields to flood, too little rain can cause dry soil. Climate change can effect the way plants grow because they have been conditioned to grow in the area they are in, which is now changing. We see how the Green Revolution was a time of research and development that brought about new technology that can help with this.
Frank Martinez is a farmer that dreamed of owning his own farm and that dream has come true. He began with thirty five acres of land and now he grows potatoes on one thousand acres of land. He focuses on the seed, soil, climate and water. He says, “If you grow the best potatoes, you’re going to have the best french fries. When you make something with pride, people can taste it.” He’s very proud of the company he works for. His dreams have come true.
To watch his story, go to this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xxlEkstcwM
For more information, watch this video about 100 Circle Farms: http://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en/food/food_quality/see_what_we_are_made_of/meet_our_suppliers/100_circle_farms.html
Grant from Mythbusters in a McDonald’s potato field.