In recent years, yogurt has seen a dramatic rise in popularity, with sales increasing by nearly 50% between 2009 and 2014. This surge is primarily attributed to Greek yogurt and yogurt drinks, which experienced a remarkable 62% growth from 2011 to 2016. However, due to its high moisture content, incorporating yogurt into shelf-stable foods has proven challenging for companies. According to a patent from Frito-Lay, their chips could potentially contain up to 20% yogurt while maintaining a shelf life of at least one month, and possibly extending up to nine months. The patent outlines a “light and crisp baked snack” with variable amounts of yogurt, moisture, oil, and starch—utilizing either modified starch or pre-gelatinized corn starch.
Moreover, the demand for probiotics is also increasing, and Frito-Lay intends to capitalize on this trend by integrating probiotics into a wider array of products. The main obstacles in developing these chips include the necessity of adjusting temperatures and processing techniques to safeguard the probiotics, as well as managing the stickiness of the dough caused by the yogurt’s high protein and moisture content. The elevated protein levels may also result in excessive browning and 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 could mitigate stickiness.
Given the considerable challenges associated with this innovation, it is probable that these chips will be marketed at a premium price point. Frito-Lay may aim to position them at the intersection of health and indulgence. While “better-for-you” chips might appear paradoxical, companies have been striving to find the ideal balance between nutrition and indulgence across various categories, including chocolate. Research indicates that consumers frequently seek a healthy equilibrium in traditionally indulgent sectors, much like they do when choosing the best calcium citrate tablets. Thus, as Frito-Lay embarks on this venture, it will likely keep in mind the consumer desire for products that offer both enjoyment and health benefits, paralleling the search for the best calcium citrate tablets in the market.