Dear Reader,

As the coronavirus crisis evolves in real time—and along with it, the shape of our daily lives—The Counter is doubling down on its commitment to relevant, sane, original reporting on the forces shaping how and what America eats. 

Here’s what that means right now: 1) Fact-based journalism that answers the urgent, food-related questions all Americans have, from access to safety protocols to support for the suddenly unemployed, 2) Deeper context and analysis on the way this pandemic is already reshaping our national conversation about inequality, cultural identity, entrepreneurship, systems, behavior, appetite, and the abiding, existential relationship we all have with food.

We will continue to responsibly report on the news of the immediate moment, and in the coming weeks and months, will also expand our coverage to include first-person and personal accounts of the American eating experience as it unfolds through fear, isolation, loss, fortitude, and renewal. May we all gather for a meal again—sooner than later—at a new, much improved global table.

In the meantime, stay in touch,

Kate Cox
Editor