In the general case, I agree with you. With the specific niche of food, however, I disagree strongly.<p>In the US, supporting independent, community farmers is key in battling the negative effects of the government corn subsidy. There are numerous places you can learn about this subsidy's adverse effects on developing countries--I'd suggest <i>Food,</i> <i>Inc.</i> for one. Buying locally grown food is also an environmental boon, since there's much less fuel burned in transportation.