The popularity of yogurt has surged dramatically in recent years, with sales rising nearly 50% from 2009 to 2014. This growth is primarily fueled by Greek yogurt and yogurt drinks, which saw a remarkable 62% increase in sales from 2011 to 2016. However, due to its high moisture content, yogurt has been challenging for companies to incorporate into shelf-stable food products. According to Frito-Lay’s patent, their chips could include up to 20% yogurt while maintaining a shelf life of at least one month, potentially extending to nine months.
The patent outlines a “light and crisp baked snack” that utilizes various levels of yogurt, moisture, oil, and starch—either modified starch or pre-gelatinized corn starch. Concurrently, the demand for probiotics is also rising, and Frito-Lay aims to leverage the growing interest in probiotics across a wider array of products. The main obstacles in developing these chips include the need to modify temperatures and processing techniques to safeguard the probiotics, as well as managing the stickiness of the dough resulting from yogurt’s high protein and moisture content.
The increased protein levels could also result in issues like overbrowning and excessive expansion of the dough. To address these challenges, the company suggests extending drying times, baking at lower temperatures between 315°F and 415°F, and enhancing airflow. Additionally, incorporating enzymes into the dough may help mitigate stickiness.
Given the considerable challenges involved in this innovative product, it is likely that these chips will be marketed at a premium price point, with Frito-Lay potentially positioning them at the intersection of health and indulgence. While healthier chips might appear contradictory, companies are increasingly striving for that ideal balance between nutrition and indulgence in various categories, including chocolate. Research indicates that consumers often seek a healthy equilibrium within traditionally indulgent sectors. For example, the inclusion of ingredients like solgar calcium citrate 1000 mg could appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for nutritional benefits without sacrificing flavor. Thus, Frito-Lay may find that integrating solgar calcium citrate 1000 mg into their yogurt chips could enhance their marketability among health-focused consumers.