Remember when a gratuity used to be given to a service worker as a symbol of your gratitude for a job well done?

Well, those days are gone.

Tips are now expected up front before service is provided, which would technically make them an added fee, not a sign of gratitude.

Take the example of getting a meal delivered via DoorDash.

You have the cost of the meal paid to the restaurant. The cost of delivery. Then there's the option to tip.

And in some areas, DoorDash is now giving a warning that if you don't tip up front, the drivers may not prioritize your meal, resulting in cold food.

Here's what DoorDash spokesperson Jenn Rosenberg had to say about the message:

Everyday, Dashers go the extra mile to help connect consumers with the best of their local communities. That's why we encourage customers to show their appreciation by tipping.

As independent contractors, Dashers have full freedom to accept or reject offers based on what they view as valuable and rewarding. While the vast majority of customers do leave a tip, offers that don't include a tip can be seen as less desirable - this impacts our entire community, leading to longer wait times for customers, orders sitting longer at merchants, and less value for Dashers.

This reminder screen is something that we're currently testing to help create the best possible experience for all members of our community. As with anything we pilot, we look forward to closely analyzing the results and feedback.

Now, I'm all for tipping for good service.

There's nothing wrong with showing appreciation for someone going above and beyond, and these gig tech companies are notorious for trying to stiff their workers, so the tip is an important part of the workers' incomes.

That said, having to pay a ransom to avoid having your food being taken hostage by a delivery driver or ending up with food-poisoning because your order sat too long is kind of insane.

And everyone and their mom has strong feeling on the subject:

That last one brings up an interesting point.

Tipping isn't really expected in a lot of countries around the world.

But here in America, our entitlement knows no bounds.

Check out this delivery driver scoffing at a 22% tip.

Personally, I've never used any of these food delivery services, though I always tip the pizza guy if that counts.

But, I haven't walked away from this story without learning anything.

Next time my wife sends me out to pick up dinner, I'll be sure to call her with my hostage demands.

I'll let y'all know how it goes.

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