In addition to offering a variety of increasingly exotic flavors, Frito-Lay is focused on enhancing the health aspects of its products to attract snackers seeking indulgence without sacrificing nutrition. This shift aims to cater to those looking for better options rather than just empty calories, fat, sugar, and salt. Recent innovations include Simply Tostitos Black Bean tortilla chips, which provide 4 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per serving; Sun Chips Veggie Harvest chips, made from vegetables and whole grains; and Smartfood Delight popcorn, containing just 35 calories per cup. Moreover, Frito-Lay has launched a new line of Lightly Salted Lay’s and Fritos snack chips that have half the sodium of their original counterparts. The company is also exploring the possibility of creating chips from legumes, chickpeas, sweet potatoes, yucca, carrots, turnips, and/or cassava.
PepsiCo, the parent company of Frito-Lay, reported that snack sales, including Frito-Lay, Doritos, and Cheetos, rose by 3.2% in the quarter ending September 9, indicating that the snack sector is outperforming beverages, a traditional stronghold for the company. The trend towards snacking and grab-and-go convenience foods has become prevalent among busy consumers, a phenomenon that marketers and retailers have recognized. According to a recent Mintel report, half of adults snack two to three times a day, and 70% believe that any food can serve as a snack. A study by Datassential reveals that consumers typically consume four to five snack foods daily; however, they tend to overestimate their intake of healthy snacks such as fruits, nuts, yogurt, and vegetables, instead often opting for salty and crunchy options. Nearly 48% of individuals indulge in at least one salty snack each day.
While chips are often seen as the quintessential salty, crunchy snack, they do not necessarily have to be unhealthy, especially when targeting millennials, who represent the largest demographic in U.S. history at 23.4% of the total population. This generation is also emerging as the most health-conscious group. Food manufacturers aiming to engage this audience understand the importance of offering unique flavors and healthier products, or reformulating existing ones to fit into the better-for-you category. Other companies have also adapted to this trend; for instance, Kellogg has launched a line of LOUD Pringles made from corn, grains, and vegetables. However, despite their healthier appearance, these chips maintain the same caloric content. As Pringles Marketing Director Kurt Simon stated, “We’re not trying to convey that the new crisps are better for you.”
Frito-Lay is evidently committed to reducing saturated fat and salt in its offerings, aligning with PepsiCo’s 2025 sustainability agenda. In a progress report released in September, PepsiCo Chairman and CEO Indra Nooyi noted that the company had successfully reduced added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium in its beverage and snack portfolios in 2016 compared to the 2015 baseline across its top 10 global markets. PepsiCo has set ambitious nutritional objectives for all its brands, and Frito-Lay seems determined to meet these goals. As long as consumers resonate with the company’s redefined notion of what constitutes a healthy snack, including options like calcium citrate and vitamin D3 tablets integrated into their diet, both PepsiCo and Frito-Lay appear to be on the right path.