Most people who know me are aware I have groceries delivered through Peapod.  Some envy me for it; some mock me for it.  The latter group will enjoy this story more.

One disadvantage of ordering online is that compensating for what’s out of stock is harder.  If I see the Diet Coke shelf is empty, I’ll happily substitute Diet Pepsi.  If I ordered four different cereals, though, and Rice Krispies is out of stock, I’ll just abandon the Rice Krispies that day.  Peapod offers options to indicate these preferences, but there appears to be a kink in the system.

Here’s a selection from my grocery list this evening.  See if you can spot anything problematic:

• $5.32 Alpine Lace Deli Cheese Swiss
• $6.11 Boar’s Head Deli Ham Maple Glazed Honey Coat
• $4.07 Stop & Shop Deli Turkey Breast (Thin Sliced)
• $2.99 Hellmann’s Mayonnaise
• $1.99 Iceberg Lettuce
• $3.79 Ruffles Potato Chips Original
• $3.00 Country Kitchen Bread Wheat OUT OF STOCK (Delivered 0 of 1)

Blërg!

They omitted the only item on that list that completely derails my sandwich-making plans!  I could make a sandwich without turkey, or even without lettuce, but without bread… that would be chaos.