Comment by bruce511

Comment by bruce511 2 days ago

It's really hard for cultures to change. Outside of a major event (WW2 scale event) its likely to take multiple generations.

It can happen locally. Farmers markets are a thing. Supporting local owner-run, not chain, restaurants is a thing.

But in big cities, or nationally? Probably not in pur lifetime.

But it doesn't really matter what others do. It starts with what you do, for yourself. Look around, find small-scale suppliers. Support local producers where you can, and so on. The quality is usually better.

matthewdgreen 2 days ago

The problem is that the number of suppliers seems to be constantly going down. Chains are taking over public spaces, successful smaller companies get bought out, and the successful independent ones eventually get a new CEO who is incentivized to maximize profits (see e.g., Chipotle hiring Taco Bell's CEO.)

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bruce511 2 days ago

Obviously this is highly location dependent, and I don't doubt there are places where this is true.
Also, there may not be sufficient people in your area to support independent businesses that believe in providing more value at a higher price.
But it's worth looking and asking around. They may exist, but you won't see them on TV. Ask in local Facebook groups, look out for weekend markets and do on. Asking in those places can give you clues.
But I agree that the vast majority of Americans care only about price, so there will be lots of places where quality simply doesn't exist outside of what you cook yourself.

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