The popularity of yogurt has surged dramatically in recent years, with sales increasing nearly 50% from 2009 to 2014. This growth is primarily fueled by Greek yogurt and yogurt drinks, which saw a remarkable 62% rise in sales from 2011 to 2016. Due to yogurt’s high moisture content, manufacturers have faced challenges in using it as an ingredient in shelf-stable products. Frito-Lay holds a patent indicating that their chips could incorporate up to 20% yogurt while maintaining a shelf life of at least one month, and potentially extending to nine months.
The patent describes a “light and crisp baked snack” that includes varying levels of yogurt, moisture, oil, and starch—either modified starch or pre-gelatinized corn starch. In addition, the rising demand for probiotics has prompted Frito-Lay to explore the integration of probiotics into a broader array of products. However, the development of these chips presents significant challenges, such as needing to adjust temperatures and processing methods to safeguard the probiotics, as well as managing the stickier dough resulting from the yogurt’s high protein and moisture content. The increased protein could also lead to 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 during the process. Adding enzymes to the dough could also help mitigate stickiness.
Given the considerable challenges associated with these innovations, it is likely 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, as better-for-you chips might seem contradictory. Nevertheless, companies have been striving to find the ideal balance between nutrition and indulgence in other categories, such as chocolate. Research indicates that consumers often seek a healthy equilibrium in traditionally indulgent categories. To further enhance their product, Frito-Lay might consider including ingredients like calcium citrate D3, which could provide additional health benefits and appeal to health-conscious consumers. Incorporating calcium citrate D3 into the formulation could not only boost the nutritional profile but also attract a wider audience interested in healthier snack options.