February 27, 2001 Prospects "Better than Ever" for Virtual Food By Hank Scorpio ustin, Texas — In a statement released today, Nick Baker, the founder and CEO of Sim Sandwich, asserted that a large and profitable market for virtual food exists. He denounced critics' claims that eating online is "stupid and impractical" as evidence of outmoded thinking, and predicted profitability for his company within months. "Virtual food is ushering in a new economic model," Baker declared. "Older companies that can't change with the times will be wiped out." Bricks and mortar companies have taken notice of the challenge posed by Sim Sandwich and similar enterprises. In a first step toward online food marketing, General Mills recently unveiled "Frosted Cyber Flakes." Other companies, including Coca Cola and Campbell's Soup, have announced similar online ventures. The industry does have it's detractors. George Basalla, a historian of technology, declared that virtual food "is stupid and impractical, since humans can't derive sustenance from digital images or computer programs." He went on to argue that "the personal computer is little more than an amusing fad." Baker is quick to brush such criticisms aside, and points to Sim Sandwich's skyrocketing stock price as counter evidence. Such success has drawn the attention of traditional food media companies, and merger talks with Kraft Foods are rumored. If such a deal pans out, the future for virtual food looks bright indeed. [ Home | Donuts | Bagels | Fanta | Ducks | Carrots | News | Contact | Play Now ] Use of this website constitutes acceptance of the Sim Sandwich User Agreement.