Pot pies have lost place on my plate

I'll admit I worry about the war in Iraq, I worry about our economy and I worry about the health care crisis that this country faces. But now I have to worry about Banquet pot pies, a staple in my life as far back as I can remember.

ConAgra Foods, the makers of the popular Banquet pot pies, says the pies may contain salmonella and at least 139 cases of salmonella poisoning have already been reported across the country. Missouri is among the leading states for sicknesses related to the pot pies.

Now granted, pot pies are not necessarily a culinary feast. But they are cheap, quick, hot and even an idiot can prepare a "home cooked" meal with these tasty little treats. Without pot pies - usually the Banquet brand - my college years would have had much less dietary balance. That's my story and I'm sticking to it!

If you come from any background other than a privileged life, you know Banquet pot pies. When nothing else seems appetizing, I always knew I could turn to the pot pies as a source of questionable nutrition. I may not want to know the ingredients but they still hit the spot a thousand times in my eating history.

And now I have to worry about pot pies! What's next?

I don't pretend that these pot pies are high on the list of healthy items. But neither are greasy cheeseburgers and I have found them tasty more times than I can count. I know of several bachelors who will soon be having pot pie withdrawals and some young couples may actually be forced into learning how to cook. Perish the thought!

Back in my younger years, a Banquet pot pie, a Pepsi and a Twinkie offered a balanced meal. I have advanced a bit beyond that point but, believe me, there are thousands if not millions who have not.

We hope ConAgra gets their act together and returns the pot pies to the dinner tables across America. Until then, that bologna sandwich is looking much better!