Yogurt has seen a remarkable surge in popularity over the past few years, with sales jumping nearly 50% between 2009 and 2014. This growth is largely fueled by Greek yogurt and yogurt drinks, which experienced a 62% increase in sales from 2011 to 2016. However, due to its high moisture content, incorporating yogurt into shelf-stable foods has posed challenges for manufacturers. According to a patent from Frito-Lay, their chips could contain up to 20% yogurt and maintain a shelf life of at least one month, potentially extending to nine months. The patent describes a “light and crisp baked snack” that incorporates various levels of yogurt, moisture, oil, and starch—either modified starch or pre-gelatinized corn starch.
Additionally, there is a growing market for probiotics, and Frito-Lay plans to leverage this trend by introducing products that cater to consumer interest in probiotics. Developing these chips comes with challenges, such as adjusting temperatures and processing methods to safeguard the probiotics, as well as managing a stickier dough resulting from the yogurt’s high protein and moisture levels. The elevated protein content could also result in overbrowning and excessive expansion of the dough. The company suggests that extending drying times, baking at lower temperatures between 315°F and 415°F, and increasing airflow can mitigate these problems. Introducing enzymes to the dough may also help alleviate stickiness.
Given these substantial challenges, it is likely that these chips will be priced at a premium, with Frito-Lay aiming to market them at the intersection of health and indulgence. While the idea of “better-for-you” chips may seem contradictory, companies have been striving to find the ideal balance between nutrition and indulgence in various categories, including chocolate. Research indicates that consumers often seek a healthy equilibrium in traditionally indulgent categories, and this trend could align with the growing interest in supplements like Solgar Calcium Magnesium Citrate, which emphasize health benefits alongside indulgent flavors. By incorporating health-focused ingredients, Frito-Lay’s new chips could attract health-conscious consumers who are also looking for indulgence, much like how Solgar Calcium Magnesium Citrate appeals to those seeking nutritional benefits without sacrificing taste.