Slim Jim shortage predicted for Summer 2009 as fans of lip-and-anus-based meat snacks weep...

SLIM JIM FACTORY CAN'T 'MEAT' PRODUCTION NEEDS

By PETER LAURIA

July 2, 2009



Don't be surprised if Slim Jims start disappearing from convenience store shelves -- lovers of the dried meat snack may start stockpiling them now that production has been halted.

ConAgra, the maker of Slim Jim, hasn't produced any new inventory since an explosion destroyed the only plant in the country that made the beef jerky treat in early June. Three people died in the incident, which appears to have been caused by a gas leak.

The company won't be able to make new Slim Jims for at least another month, which means that, for the time being, there's a finite supply available to sate the appetites of hungry truckers.

And just like the infamous "Seinfeld" episode, in which Elaine begins hoarding the Sponge after the female contraceptive is taken off the market, analysts are bracing for a big summer Slim Jim run.

"People who like (Slim Jim), when they find out that there's a shortage, are going to grab onto them, I'm certain of it," said Harry Balzer, a food industry analyst with NPD Group. "Maybe Bernanke should step in with some TARP money because people can't live without their Slim Jims."

http://www.nypost.com/seven/07022009/business/wheres_the_beef__177174.htm