Inflation is creeping around every corner, and now it’s managed to find its way to a beloved staple of fast food: the french fry. Lamb Weston, the main supplier of McDonald’s crispy, golden delights, has recently shut down a plant in Washington, laying off nearly 400 workers. It seems the rising cost of doing business has cost jobs – and let’s be honest, that’s just heartbreaking for french fry lovers everywhere. Who knew our late-night snack could turn into a serious economic discussion?
Lamb Weston cited multiple reasons for the layoffs, not just inflation but shockingly, a supposed lack of interest in frozen potatoes. Now, that’s a hard pill to swallow! I mean, have they stepped into a grocery store freezer aisle lately? Frozen fries have their own section, and they practically crowd each other for space! It’s hard to believe that America’s demand for fries is “soft” when drive-thrus are continually packed with hungry customers, ready to chow down.
CEO Tom Werner is claiming these tough decisions will help better manage production and ease the supply-demand imbalance. Maybe it’ll also push some folks to reconsider whether they want a double cheeseburger and fries or just two burgers to double up on those toppings. And who knew we’d have to consider the economics behind our fast food? Let’s just hope we’re still able to enjoy those crispy nuggets of joy without worrying about what’s next on the chopping block.
Is it too much to ask for a side of fries without the side of economic woes? As we navigate through inflation and food shortages, let’s remember that even in the darkest economic times, we’re still here talking about fries—so at least some things remain constant.
Mike ” Sandman’ Sanders
