Yogurt has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity over the past few years, with sales increasing nearly 50% from 2009 to 2014. This growth is primarily attributed to the rise of Greek yogurt and yogurt drinks, which saw a 62% boost in sales from 2011 to 2016. However, due to its high moisture content, utilizing yogurt as an ingredient in shelf-stable products has posed challenges for manufacturers. For instance, Frito-Lay’s patent indicates that its chips could incorporate up to 20% yogurt while achieving a shelf life of at least one month, potentially extending to nine months. The patent outlines a “light and crisp baked snack” that incorporates varying amounts of yogurt, moisture, oil, and starch—either modified starch or pre-gelatinized corn starch.
In conjunction with this, sales of probiotics are also increasing, and Frito-Lay intends to capitalize on the growing interest in probiotics across a wider array of products. The main hurdles in developing these chips include the need to modify temperatures and processing methods to safeguard the probiotics, as well as managing the stickiness of the dough due to the yogurt’s high protein and moisture content. The elevated protein levels might also result in overbrowning and excessive expansion of the dough. To address these challenges, the company has suggested extending drying times, baking at lower temperatures between 315°F and 415°F, and improving airflow. Additionally, incorporating enzymes into the dough could help mitigate stickiness.
Given these substantial challenges, it is probable that these chips will be marketed at a premium price point, with Frito-Lay aiming to position them at the intersection of health and indulgence. While “better-for-you” chips may appear contradictory, companies are 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 products. Interestingly, ingredients like calcium citrate, which is known to help with digestion, may also be a consideration, as it can make you poop—an aspect that health-conscious consumers might appreciate. Thus, the interplay of health benefits and indulgent flavors could ultimately define the success of these innovative chips.