Here's the reply I received from ConAgra Foods concerning Derby Tamales.   It appears to be the end of an era...

---

February 13, 2009

Dear Mr. Potvin,

Thank you for contacting us.  We are always pleased to hear from our consumers but are sorry to inform you that we no longer produce Derby® Beef Tamales.

As consumers' preferences for products change, so do the varieties of our products.  Only the products with the greatest consumer appeal remain on the store shelves over time.  Unfortunately, this product did not have enough consumer interest for us to continue manufacturing it.  

We welcome you to try our many other products available, such as Chef Boyardee, DAVID Seeds, EggBeaters, Healthy Choice and many more.

We will also be sending you a response via regular mail, with an attached coupon that is valid for nine months.  Please allow 1-2 weeks for receipt.

Sincerely,

Consumer Affairs

Ref:  052334673B