I have to wonder if they have not toned the recipe of the match mix over the years due to liability issues. Maybe some idiot had a pocket full and they ignited.

A little research however turned up part of the problem. Strike anywhere matches are considered hazardous material for shipping purposes, at least one manufacturer discontinued the product because of the outrageous shipping charges associated with the product.

But that only explains the decreased availability of the product. Not the sub-par performance, which as I noted, has likely been dialed back. The fact that they are used by meth cooks probably has not helped the problem. (Anyone try to buy sudafed these days?)

Without a doubt, the do not ignite as easily and certainly seem to deteriorate in no time.