Topic: Orthorexia

The Wall Street Journal reports on "Orthorexia Nervosa," a proposed eating disorder characterized by an obsession with healthy or "pure" eating. While not yet in the DSM, experts describe it as a condition where the quality of food becomes a psychological fixation similar to OCD.

The hosts read notes from various donors who contributed to the show. These include a developer for a Boston restaurant app, a family raising money for an Ethiopian adoption through T-shirt sales, and a creator of a webcomic called "Crappy Cat." Several donors mention seeking "good karma" for new relationships or business ventures.

Wendy's CEO Roland Smith announced a new marketing focus on "real ingredients," such as fresh eggs and multiple types of greens. The hosts discuss the common use of cellulose (wood pulp) as a filler in the fast-food industry and reminisce about the ingredients found in products like Hamburger Helper.

The BBC is criticized for publishing a pro-genetically modified (GM) food article by Jonathan Jones without disclosing his professional ties to Monsanto. The term "orthorexia nervosa" is highlighted as a new medical label used to pathologize individuals obsessed with eating healthy or avoiding GM products. The discussion notes that Haiti recently rejected Monsanto seed donations to maintain control over their own food supply.

Mainstream media reports identify "Orthorexia Nervosa" as a mental disorder characterized by a fixation on righteous or pure eating. The British Dietetic Association notes that sufferers focus on food quality rather than quantity, which critics argue pathologizes healthy lifestyle choices.