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by NaOH·5y ago·view on hn ↗
As someone who makes their living owning a food business, nearly all the food industry-related comments here are off the mark. Rather than rebut any of them, I'd say the way to think about that particular set of industry challenges is to think of them like a chronic condition.

It's never a "just do this" answer. Never. You don't tell your friend with depression to plow through this down phase he's in. And the other friend with Crohn's disease and a colostomy bag doesn't benefit from someone suggesting she try a gluten-free diet.

It's the same in the food industry. The issues at hand are complex, the ripple effects of any change are significant and multifaceted, and the foremost issue today may be superseded tomorrow while nonetheless remaining an area for concern and attention.

The better move from the outside is to provide the support that's needed today by the business (or the friend) and within your means. Can't afford to go out for food regularly? I get it, just like your job may not allow you to be available as often as your friend with Crohn's disease needs a ride home from the hospital after some procedure.

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But also, unlike having a friend with a chronic disease, it is no one's obligation to support particular local businesses with their time and money. Yes, supporting local businesses in general is good, no question—but I feel like framing it as "just give the support you can to your local restaurants" implies a greater onus than can realistically be placed on regular people.