by Russell Waldron

Created on: June 10, 2009   Last Updated: June 16, 2009

Where fast food is concerned, there is definitely no language barrier. Fast food is not just an American enterprize, it's popularity reaches just about every corner of the earth. Burger King, McDonald's. KFC, you don't need to explain to anyone who they are or what they are, they're recognized just about everywhere. The Japanese say McDonald's just like us, the Spanish ask, "Quieres venir a mcdonalds?" (Will you come to McDonald's with me?" ) McDonald's and other popular fast food chains are as popular as Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny and Superman.

Unfortunately the globalization of fast foods has painted a negative image of America's restaurants. American is seen as a country filled to the brim with entrepreneurs, more so where food franchises are concerned. With a strong reputation for inspiring other countries to mimic their advancements in technology, political affairs and so forth, one often looks upon the rest of the world as followers while American is deemed the leader of diversity.

In reference to fast food businesses and irrespective of the economic crisis, America is doing well. Not much has changed at all. A host of fast food franchise which originated in the United States have moved further afield and nudged their way into a variety of cultures. Most of the time welcomed with open arms, yet occasionally shunned for its intrusion. Yet what image does this give in lieu of globalization?

Instigator of obesity and poor health?

Unfortunately America is often portrayed as the instigator of obesity, poor health and laziness. In reference to convenience foods replacing healthy lifestyles and premature death due to health related diseases associated with fast food addiction the fingers are pointed at America. But surely America does not wish to be known as Junk Food Country. America has so much to offer apart from its fast food restaurants, yet its reputation for historical and cultural beauty is slipping fast and being replaced with none other than talk of McDonalds', Burger King and other fast food franchises.

Are the golden arches or a huge burger and fries going to represent the spirit of America?

One is led to wonder how soon it will be before the American Flag is altered to display golden arches and a picture of Colonial Sander's head. Yes as ironic as it sounds, one can't help but wonder if an upsized Big Mac Meal proudly displayed on travel brochures in the near future will be the only thing used to represent the spirit of America. Will picturesque

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