Workin' On My Own Green Thumb

Recently I've started planning what to do with our patio outside the new apartment. I want to grow plants and also have a couple chairs with a table so it should be simple, it's just laying it all out and deciding on what plants to use.
To make the most of the little space, I'm considering a pallet garden. Like, literally just using a pallet, cleaning and painting it up. I'll need a medium that wicks water all throughout the pallet but allow for enough aeration. I spoke with my coworker Curt and he said that Chunky Coco Coir (coconut fiber) or regular Coco Coir with Perlite would do well. As for what plants, I haven't decided entirely. It'd be nice to have thyme, cilantro, lavender, marigolds, and perhaps some lettuce when it cools down. I know Alex would love to have some parsley. Can't put any peppers or tomatoes in because their roots will take over. Whatever I decide it's going to be fun having a patio.

AzodicarBut I Thought My Bread Was Fresh Made?

Big question for the food businesses and industries out there: Why can't you just serve food? Like, the stuff that occurs naturally--in nature. You know, the areas of the world untouched by industrialization and the rape of the word food?
I was recently reading an article on yet another additive to food products (I stress the difference between food and food products because real food shouldn't involve so many steps to make it into your bowl or onto your plate.). This specific additive is called Azodicarbonamide and it has multipurpose use: foamy plastics and fluffy breads. Like, edible breads-- the ones you eat from Subway.
Why add crap to our food products? To keep them products. It's not about nutrition, it's just about sale. It's not about health, it's about triggering that sugary clasp in your mind to keep you coming back for more... to keep selling.
When I read articles like these it reminds me why my mind and body has changed so much since I started focusing my meals on fresh ingredients (except oatmeal; I may want to start looking into the brands of instant I buy) and made it a goal to eat as little out of boxes as possible. Yes, produce has the issue of pesticides but at least I know I have the organic option as well as vinegar wash to help minimize unnaturals from my food.
I'm feeling really frustrated, the more I think about it. No other country does what we do, to the extent that we do.
The US is the land of opportunity and, unfortunately, the opportunities are seized by big corporations and make food into products. The death of bread, cheese, juice, and the like seems inevitable. Why would someone buy fresh when they can buy a loaf that will never mold or harden over a year's time? Why would anyone want to actual eat a naturally nutritional food item instead of a product of a long toxic process that supports an unhealthy American diet?

End of rant for desire for real food everywhere.