Delving into the world of food production can be both enlightening and unsettling. This curated list of documentaries offers a window into the complex, often hidden processes behind the food on our plates. From the ethical dilemmas of farming to the innovative techniques in food manufacturing, these films provide a comprehensive look at how our food is made, challenging viewers to reconsider their eating habits and the food industry's impact on our planet and health.

King Corn (2007)
Description: Two friends trace the origins of their food by planting an acre of corn in Iowa, uncovering the pervasive influence of corn in the American diet and its environmental impact.
Fact: The filmmakers, Ian Cheney and Curt Ellis, actually lived in Iowa for a year to follow the corn's journey from seed to supermarket.


Food, Inc. (2008)
Description: This film exposes the dark side of America's corporate-controlled food industry, revealing how food is produced, processed, and sold. It delves into the health, environmental, and economic consequences of our food system.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It inspired a book of the same name, expanding on the film's themes.


Fed Up (2014)
Description: This documentary tackles the obesity epidemic in America, focusing on the role of sugar and processed foods in our diet, and the influence of food industry lobbying on public health.
Fact: Katie Couric, one of the producers, was inspired to make this film after her own struggles with weight and health.


The True Cost (2015)
Description: While focusing on the fashion industry, this documentary also explores the impact of fast fashion on food production, particularly through the use of cotton and the environmental degradation caused by industrial agriculture.
Fact: The film features interviews with activists, farmers, and industry insiders, providing a broad perspective on the global impact of consumerism.


Sustainable (2016)
Description: The film follows Marty Travis, a farmer in Illinois, as he implements sustainable farming practices, highlighting the potential for regenerative agriculture to combat climate change and improve food production.
Fact: The documentary was produced by Annie Speicher, who also directed the film, showcasing her commitment to sustainable agriculture.


The Game Changers (2018)
Description: This documentary follows James Wilks, a former MMA fighter, as he explores the benefits of a plant-based diet for athletes, touching on the broader implications for food production and sustainability.
Fact: The film features interviews with top athletes, scientists, and experts, challenging traditional views on protein sources.


The Biggest Little Farm (2018)
Description: Follows a couple as they transform a barren plot of land into a thriving, biodiverse farm, showcasing sustainable farming practices and the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
Fact: The film won the Audience Award at the 2018 SXSW Film Festival.


Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret (2014)
Description: Kip Andersen investigates the impact of animal agriculture on the environment, revealing how it contributes to climate change, water use, deforestation, and species extinction.
Fact: The film was initially self-funded by Andersen and his co-director Keegan Kuhn, highlighting the grassroots nature of the project.


Okja (2017)
Description: Although a fictional narrative, this film by Bong Joon-ho sheds light on the cruel realities of industrial animal farming, focusing on a genetically modified "super pig" and the corporate exploitation of food production.
Fact: The film was released on Netflix and received critical acclaim for its blend of social commentary and emotional storytelling.


Rotten (2018)
Description: This Netflix series dives into various aspects of food production, from honey laundering to garlic farming, exposing corruption, waste, and the exploitation within the food industry.
Fact: Each episode focuses on a different food item, offering a comprehensive look at the global food supply chain.
