Both sides cite multiple sources. If all it was one company, then it would be just "a bad company", except that I'm not just referencing one - I'm referencing several.

Let's suppose I've managed to find the absolute worst of companies - fine, I can accept that.

Then why are recruiters/HR/managers so apprehensive to disclose what the cost control measure are - what are the plans, policies, procedures, practices, and processes, what are the duties and scope, roles are responsibilities ........ ?

I honestly don't think that getting vending machine tokens from HR daily for can of free soda, or whatever "gourmet sandwich" is the vending machine is impressive.

Impressive would be 401K plan sponsored by the company that allows you to rollover the 401K's from previous employers, and allows you to roll it over into some other company when you leave. Or a 401K that stays with you as you move from project to project within the company.