I think it's part of a larger discussion of small-town malaise. Cost is obviously a big part of it. Canned and frozen stuff last a lot longer than fresh, leading to less food waste. Pre-formed and pre-packaged is easier, meaning you probably need less kitchen staff.
But at the same time, fresh shit can be sourced cheaply if you put in a little work. I mean, ok--it's significantly more work than just calling Sysco. But still, in a rural area it shouldn't be that hard to source fresh meat and produce from local providers. And yeah--pounding out the CFS yourself rather than buying the shitty pre-formed things takes a bit of time. But is it really that much more work?
The real problem is a complete absence of pride in the product. And that lack of pride probably derives in large part to the issue you identify--your customer base wouldn't appreciate it even if you did put in the extra work. They're happy with Sonic and Subway. So why put together a decent meal if you're not going to be rewarded for it?
Thirty years ago, if I were to drive from Austin to Marshall or to Wichita Falls or to Marfa, there'd probably be a half-dozen places in random little towns that you'd really look forward to stopping at. And virtually every little town would have a place that would be at least worth a stop.
Today--not a one. Genuinely, not one. I mean, maybe Perini Ranch is on the way to Wichita Falls. I don't know. But other than that, Brisket's right--the local Mexican place is the only place you ought to consider eating in small-town Texas.