The real cost of food

Great post by Bittman today in the NYT about the pay structure and (lack of) benefits for restaurant workers ( find the article here:  The 20 Million).  Of all the many ways in which we don't cover the true cost of our food, this one often goes overlooked.  Especially poignant now that so many Americans eat out, far more than ever have previously.  I also can't help but think about it in light of the direction the American economy is headed:  more service oriented economy, a greater divide between the haves and have nots.  I think in some ways, these two things become a bit of a vicious cycle...one where many are stuck in jobs with no advancement, no benefits, and, unfortunately, no alternative.