Which three characteristics connect the fast-food industry to manufacturing, according to Schlosser?

The correct answer highlights the key characteristics that link the fast-food industry to manufacturing, particularly through the lens of Schlosser's analysis.

Teenage workers are a significant part of the workforce in fast-food establishments, mirroring practices in the manufacturing sector where young, often less experienced workers are common. This reliance on a demographic that can often be paid lower wages aligns the two industries in their approach to labor.

The concept of "throughput" refers to the efficiency of operations and maximizing output in a limited time frame, a foundational principle in manufacturing that is equally crucial in fast-food environments designed to serve customers quickly. This need for speed in service is a clear similarity that connects the operational strategies of both industries.

Stressing consistency is vital in both sectors. In fast food, maintaining uniform quality and experience across locations is essential for brand integrity, much like manufacturing where quality control ensures that products meet specified standards consistently across batches.

These three traits—reliance on young workers, emphasis on throughput for efficiency, and a commitment to consistency in product delivery—strongly reflect the structural and operational parallels between fast food and manufacturing.