In recent years, yogurt has gained immense popularity, with sales increasing nearly 50% between 2009 and 2014. This surge is largely attributed to Greek yogurt and yogurt drinks, which saw a remarkable 62% rise in sales from 2011 to 2016. However, due to its high moisture content, companies have faced challenges in using yogurt as an ingredient in shelf-stable foods. According to a patent from Frito-Lay, their chips could incorporate up to 20% yogurt while maintaining a shelf life of at least a month, potentially extending to nine months. The patent outlines a “light and crisp baked snack” that balances yogurt, moisture, oil, and starch—whether modified starch or pre-gelatinized corn starch.
Additionally, the market for probiotics is expanding, and Frito-Lay aims to capitalize on the growing interest in probiotics across a wider array of products. Developing these yogurt-infused chips presents challenges, including the need to modify 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 increased protein content may also cause issues such as overbrowning and excessive expansion of the dough. To address these concerns, the company suggests extending drying times, baking at lower temperatures between 315°F and 415°F, and enhancing airflow during the baking process. Incorporating enzymes into the dough could also help mitigate stickiness.
Given the substantial challenges involved, it is likely that these innovative chips will be marketed at a premium price point, with Frito-Lay positioning them at the intersection of health and indulgence. While “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 within traditionally indulgent segments. Furthermore, as they explore these healthier snack options, many may also consider supplements like Country Life Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D to enhance their nutritional intake. In this evolving market, the integration of yogurt into snacks and the emphasis on probiotics could pave the way for a new category of better-for-you chips, appealing to health-conscious consumers.