For those who enjoy adding potato chips to their sandwiches, Herr’s has introduced an ideal solution. The Pennsylvania-based snack manufacturer is launching Sandwi-chips, a range of condiment-flavored potato chips designed to enhance the crunch and flavor of summer sandwiches. Packaged in single-serve bags, these chips are claimed to offer the perfect chip-to-sandwich ratio and come in four flavors: Ketchup, Mustard, Sweet Onion, and an exclusive Spicy Pickle flavor available only at Wawa.
Ed Herr, the chairman and CEO, stated, “We aimed to create a chip that caters to the common practice of putting chips on sandwiches. This tradition has been passed down through generations, especially as the weather warms up, and we are thrilled to be the first company to offer an extra bold chip that adds flavor and crunch to sandwiches.” While adding chips to sandwiches can spark debate online, it is a common practice in Great Britain and Ireland. Legend has it that Noreen O’Neill from Ireland invented the crisp sandwich in the 1960s to feed her family, and it has since become a beloved staple across the Atlantic. Notably, even celebrity chef Nigella Lawson has shared a crisp sandwich recipe.
While Sandwi-chips are perfect for this type of recipe, Herr’s has crafted them as a complement to more elaborate sandwiches, promoting them as a possible substitute for traditional condiments, providing both flavor and crunch to summer meals. Herr’s isn’t the only brand producing condiment-flavored chips; Ketchup has been a regular flavor in Herr’s offerings, though previously not marketed specifically for sandwiches. Additionally, Doritos introduced ketchup and mustard-flavored corn chips on its Snacks.com platform last year.
The question remains: will consumers opt to put chips on their sandwiches instead of enjoying them on the side? Sandwi-chips may help to popularize this British tradition in the U.S. or provide a fun and crunchy addition to meals.
Transitioning to another popular treat, Hershey is embracing the classic glass of chocolate milk with its latest creation, Hershey’s Kisses Milklicious. This new offering features a creamy chocolate milk filling nestled within the beloved candy, designed to evoke fond memories of enjoying a rich glass of chocolate milk. The candies are wrapped in light-blue foil adorned with playful images of glasses of milk.
Katie DeCapria, Hershey’s brand manager, emphasized, “Inspired by the nostalgic flavors of childhood, Hershey’s KISSES Milklicious candies have a rich and creamy chocolate milk filling that promises to bring joy at any time of day and unlock cherished memories for the entire family.” According to the company, Hershey produces around 70 million Kisses daily and has been manufacturing this iconic chocolate treat since 1907.
Similar to Oreo and M&M’s, Kisses are well-suited for innovation and limited-time offerings. While some flavors, like classic Kisses and those with almonds, remain, the brand has introduced numerous flavor variations over the years to keep the product line fresh and appealing to consumers seeking variety. For instance, in February, 15 different flavors were available, including Chocolate Dipped Strawberry and Lava Cake Dark Chocolate.
As summer approaches, beverage options are also evolving. Captain Morgan has launched a new version of its original spiced rum, now incorporating real Madagascar vanilla. The brand did not clarify whether the previous version contained artificial vanilla flavoring. The Diageo-owned product maintains its signature spice profile, featuring flavor notes of cinnamon, clove, dried fruit, caramelized sugar, and honey, along with a refreshed packaging design in gold colors.
Anne Nosko, the brand’s vice president, remarked, “This marks an exciting new chapter for Captain Morgan. With a fresh new look that highlights our premium liquid, we remain true to our roots while adding a modern twist.” Since its debut in 1944, Captain Morgan has become the eighth most popular cocktail product in the U.S. by volume as of 2020. The brand has also introduced variations like Cherry Vanilla, Sliced Apple, and Orange Vanilla Twist.
From 2009 to 2021, Captain Morgan’s annual rum sales grew by nearly 45%, as reported by Statista. The craft rum market is also experiencing growth, with brands introducing unique flavors using various spices, fruits, and herbs, according to The Rum Lab. Captain Morgan has been expanding its product line in response to the rise in at-home alcohol consumption. Recently, Vita Coco has launched ready-to-drink cocktails featuring Captain Morgan rum in three flavors: Lime Mojito, Strawberry Daiquiri, and Piña Colada. In 2021, the brand also released bottled cocktails in Tropical Punch, Mai Tai, and Long Island Iced Tea varieties.
Incorporating these products into your diet can provide not only enjoyment but also essential nutrients like calcium, particularly through options like calcium citrate found in fortified foods.