We know that everyone could always use a little extra inspiration to fuel change in their own lives. We also know everyone needs movie recommendations to navigate what’s out there. The next time you’re looking for something informative to watch, we hope you’ll give one of these documentaries about food systems a try!
Just Eat It
Why watch it: This film is an intimate portrait of a husband and wife’s attempt to live off of food that would have been thrown out. It’s equal parts gripping reality television, funny social commentary, and thought-provoking environmental journalism. What starts off as a quirky experiment quickly becomes an insightful deep dive into waste in America. Everyone can relate to and learn from their story.
Where to watch: Free on Youtube
Wasted! The Story of Food Waste
Why watch it: This one’s our favorite film about food waste. As we’ve written about before, it breaks down the overwhelming and depressing topic of waste into digestible parts. This documentary leaves you with inspiring ideas for how to make a difference in your kitchen and at the grocery store.
Where to watch: Available to rent on most streaming services
Food, Inc
Why watch it: Simply put, it’s one of the best primers on the state of the American food system out there. Whether you’re concerned about the rise of the obesity epidemic, baffled why healthy food is so expensive, or frustrated with how meat is produced, this film has something for you. If you enjoyed “The Omnivore’s Dilemma,” or have been meaning to read it, Food, Inc. is for you!
Where to watch: Available to stream on Hulu and Amazon Prime video
A Place at the Table
Why watch it: This documentary is a much watch for anyone looking to understand hunger in America. From the same folks behind “Food, Inc.” comes a similarly well-researched deep dive into the large, overlooked, and vexingly hard-to solve social issue that is 21st century hunger.
Where to watch: Available to rent on most streaming services
Fed Up
Why watch it: Fed Up brings to light the extremely negative impact the processed food and sugar industries have had on our nation’s health. If you like dietary hot takes and hate processed food, this documentary will be music to your ears. You’ll likely emerge from viewing it feeling fired up to rethink the foods you eat and companies that you support.
Where to watch: Free on Vudu and available to rent on most streaming services