The Food Section Switches to Phone Pitches Amid AI Influx

The Food Section, a publication focused on food industries and issues in the American South, announced on Tuesday that it will transition to a phone-only system for receiving story pitches beginning in September. This strategic shift comes in response to a significant increase in pitches generated or enhanced by artificial intelligence, which founder Hanna Raskin described as a "deluge." Raskin stated that the publication has been "deluged by AI-generated and enhanced story ideas this summer," leading to the decision to "re-humanize the process with a dedicated hotline." The hotline is also intended to serve as a filter, weeding out individuals who may not be genuine reporters by their reluctance to engage in direct phone communication.

The Food Section, with bureaus in Asheville and Charlotte, North Carolina, has previously garnered recognition for its journalistic work. It holds the distinction of being the first solo newsletter to win a James Beard award and the first newsletter to receive a National Magazine Award, according to its "About" page. Currently, Raskin accepts story pitches via a Google Form. She observed a notable rise in AI-generated pitches shortly after The Food Section increased its pay rates for freelance writers on July 17. Raskin estimates that approximately a quarter of the pitches received recently were "wholly AI," meaning that neither the purported writer nor the proposed story appears to have any real-world existence.

Raskin expressed her dismay at the quality and nature of these AI-generated submissions, describing the situation as "incredibly depressing." She noted that some pitches were "disturbingly calculated to appeal to a publication that prides itself on exposing social injustice." A particular concern for Raskin was the potential for this trend to negatively impact her editorial judgment, making her more inclined to dismiss pitches from writers lacking extensive portfolios or established professional connections. She views this inclination as counterproductive to her goals of cultivating new voices and supporting young reporters. Raskin plans to maintain the pitchline during designated hours and will assess the system's effectiveness. She acknowledged the possibility of AI being used to circumvent this new process but indicated a willingness to adapt.

The influx of AI-generated content poses a challenge across various industries, particularly in media and publishing, where it can automate content creation and communication. Publications are increasingly grappling with distinguishing authentic human-generated work from AI-produced material. The Food Section's decision reflects a broader industry concern about maintaining editorial integrity and fostering genuine journalistic talent in an era of rapidly advancing AI capabilities. By reverting to a more traditional, personal method of communication, The Food Section aims to prioritize human interaction and the authenticity of its story submissions.