The book title arouses expectations: nothing less than the big whole, the world nutrition, should be. Accordingly, a scientifically sound approach has to be followed up. Both historically, when Vaclav Smil first goes back to the beginning of mankind, as well as the depth of the information. For example, the explanations on the photosynthesis and their limits are deliberately more detailed and enriched with information on energy efficiency than from school lessons.
It is clear to the author to seek the endeavor to provide us with all the data and facts that he thinks is necessary in order to achieve a deeper understanding of the origin and composition of our food. Findings flash here and there on the reading tour, which we might not have searched for, but that, like puzzle stones, also make larger connections tangible. So the effort to facilitate yourself through the numbers and data of this book is worth it. And don’t worry: As in good lectures at the university, the explanations are interrupted by easier digestible parts and every now and then with one or the other loosening -up swipe towards one -sided healing teachings are given a healthy diet. Without revealing too much: the author has not yet lost humanity. And he can justify his cautious optimism. Stephanie Hanel
Vaclav Smil
How the diet of the world really works
Chbeck Verlag. 293 p., € 28, –
ISBN 978-3-406-8303-4
