Are Fritos Vegan?
Unveiling the Snack's Ingredients
When considering a vegan diet, scrutinizing the ingredients of every snack is a necessary step to ensure that no animal-based products are consumed. Fritos, a popular brand of corn chips, often come into question. Their crunchy texture and savory flavor make them a desirable option for those seeking plant-based foods. Fortunately for vegans, the Original, Scoops, and Lightly Salted varieties of Fritos are indeed vegan-friendly, containing only corn, corn oil, and salt.
The simplicity of the ingredient list in these Fritos variants is a boon for vegans, assuring them that they can enjoy these snacks without compromising their ethical choices. However, not all Frito flavors meet vegan standards. Certain varieties incorporate ingredients such as cheese and whey protein, which are derived from milk and therefore not suitable for a vegan diet. It is essential for vegans to pay close attention to the flavor varieties of Fritos before making a selection.
Navigating the snack aisle as a vegan requires a vigilant eye, especially as some products may have plant-based ingredients and can be misleading. Fritos presents a straightforward option for vegans with specific variants, yet it maintains others which are not vegan due to additional flavorings. This distinction is crucial for maintaining a plant-based lifestyle while still enjoying the pleasure of savory snack chips.
What Are Fritos?
Fritos are a popular brand of corn chips known for their distinctive crunch and flavor. The traditional recipe involves only three key ingredients: whole corn, corn oil, and salt. This simplicity is a cornerstone of their appeal, ensuring a consistent product with the unmistakable taste that Fritos fans have come to love.
Each Frito chip begins its life as whole kernels of corn. These kernels are ground into cornmeal, which is then cooked. After the cooking process, the cornmeal is rolled out, sliced into uniform strips, and then deep-fried in corn oil, which helps to achieve the chips' signature crunch and golden-brown hue. The frying process also imparts a rich, toasted corn flavor that is integral to the Frito identity.
Here's a quick overview of Fritos' main ingredients:
Ingredient Purpose Whole corn The base of the chip, providing texture and flavor Corn oil Used for frying, contributes to crunch and taste Salt Enhances flavor
While there are flavored varieties of Fritos that may contain other ingredients, the original Fritos corn chip retains its minimalist ingredient list, making it a straightforward snack choice. As with any food product, it's always important for consumers to check ingredient labels for the most current information, particularly if they have dietary restrictions or allergies.
Understanding Veganism
Veganism is a lifestyle choice that avoids the use of animal products and by-products in all forms. This plant-based approach extends beyond diet to exclude leather, wool, and any product tested on animals, reflecting a cruelty-free philosophy. The diet aspect focuses on dairy-free and meat-free food options, encompassing fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, nuts, and seeds.
Those following a vegan lifestyle strictly abstain from foods containing any animal-derived ingredients, which include meat, dairy, eggs, and honey. Vegan-friendly products are those that do not contain any of these animal components, ensuring that their consumption or use does not harm animals.
Vegetarianism is often confused with veganism, but the key distinction lies in the consumption of dairy ingredients. Vegetarians may consume products like milk and cheese, while vegans exclude all forms of animal exploitation and cruelty, whether for food, clothing, or any other purpose.
In the context of snacks such as Fritos, vegan Fritos would be versions of the snack that contain only plant-based ingredients. They would be free from cheese, whey, and other non-vegan additives, making them suitable for individuals adhering to the vegan principles. When assessing whether a snack is vegan, it’s crucial to scrutinize the ingredients list for hidden animal-derived components.
Fritos Ingredients Analysis
When examining Fritos' ingredients for vegan compliance, the primary components to consider include corn, salt, oil, and added flavors. The base ingredient, corn, is a plant-based commodity, inherently vegan. Salt, too, is a mineral and thus fits within a vegan diet.
The oil used in Fritos is typically corn oil, or other vegetable oils, which are also vegan-friendly. However, the presence of sugar in some Frito flavors can raise questions due to potential processing through bone char, a non-vegan method used in refining sugar. This aspect largely depends on the sourcing and processing practices of the sugar used by the manufacturer.
Furthermore, potential non-vegan additives might include preservatives and natural flavors, whose origins may not always be clear without detailed manufacturer disclosures. Ingredients such as natural flavors may be derived from animal products and thus, would not be suitable for vegans.
For unflavored varieties, such as the classic Fritos, the ingredients list is generally simple and vegan. But when it comes to flavored options, one must scrutinize the composition more closely. Often, flavors like Chili Cheese and Flamin' Hot incorporate dairy products such as cheese and whey, which are animal-derived and not vegan.
Here's a breakdown of key ingredients and their vegan status in the context of Fritos:
Ingredient Vegan Status Corn Vegan Salt Vegan Corn Oil Vegan Sugar Contested Preservatives Varies Natural Flavors Potentially Non-Vegan Cheese, Whey Non-Vegan
It is crucial for consumers to review the ingredient list for each Frito flavor. While the primary ingredients present no issue, the secondary ones might, making certain flavors incompatible with a vegan lifestyle.
Are Original Fritos Vegan?
Original Fritos are a variety of corn chips known for their simple ingredients. A key selling point for those on a vegan diet is the minimalism in the recipe. Original Fritos are composed of just three components: corn, corn oil, and salt. This straightforward blend aligns with vegan standards, as it does not include any animal products or by-products.
The original flavor of Fritos, therefore, can be considered vegan-friendly. They steer clear of ingredients like cheese or whey, items commonly found in other flavored variants that are not suitable for a vegan diet. It's this absence of dairy or other animal derivatives that allows Original Fritos to fit into a plant-based lifestyle.
However, consumers should be aware of processing practices that could potentially conflict with strict vegan principles. There's always a chance of cross-contamination if the product is manufactured in a facility that also processes non-vegan foods. But as far as ingredients are concerned, Original Fritos maintain a clear vegan profile.
In summary, the ingredients list of Original Fritos:
Ingredients Vegan Status Corn Vegan Corn Oil Vegan Salt Vegan
For those following a vegan diet, Original Fritos may be a suitable snack option, as they avoid animal-derived components in their formula.
Fritos Flavor Varieties
Frito-Lay offers an assortment of Fritos flavors, ranging from classic to specialty options, each with varied ingredients affecting their vegan status.
Classic Flavors
Classic Fritos flavors consist primarily of the Original Fritos, which are vegan-friendly as they contain just corn, corn oil, and salt. Another classic variant is the Lightly Salted Fritos, which follow a similar ingredient list but with less salt.
Specialty Flavors
Specialty Fritos flavors, including the Fritos Flavor Twists and the Fritos Scoops, offer a unique snacking experience. These often come with an ingredient twist that may not always align with vegan dietary restrictions.
Non-Vegan Flavors
Certain Fritos flavors are non-vegan due to ingredients like cheese, whey, and other dairy products. These include the Chili Cheese, the Flamin' Hot, and the BBQ varieties, which all cater to different taste preferences but contain animal-derived products.
Comparison to Other Brands
Comparatively, brands like Doritos and SunChips also offer various flavored options, some of which like Doritos Spicy Sweet Chili are vegan-friendly. However, Takis Fuego, another popular savory snack, shares a similar flavor profile to some non-vegan Fritos flavors.
Recent Additions and Discontinued Flavors
Frito-Lay periodically introduces new Fritos flavors and phases out less popular ones. For instance, Honey BBQ Flavor Twists were a notable addition, although their honey content would not be suitable for a strict vegan diet.
Health Considerations
While Fritos are gluten-free, and some flavors are vegan, they are still processed snacks. Consuming them in moderation is key as they can be high in fat and sodium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are any Fritos flavors vegan-friendly?
A: Yes, the Original and Lightly Salted flavors are vegan.
Q: Can Fritos be considered a healthy snack option?
A: Fritos should be eaten in moderation due to high fat and sodium content.
Q: Are Fritos gluten-free?
A: Yes, the Original Fritos are gluten-free, though cross-contamination may occur.
Q: Who manufactures Fritos?
A: Fritos are made by Frito-Lay, a division of PepsiCo.
Sections
When examining the vegan status of Fritos, one should consider the ingredients and flavors.
Original Fritos
Ingredients: Whole corn, corn oil, salt
Vegan Status: Vegan
Original Fritos consist of just three ingredients, making them a vegan-friendly option as they do not contain animal products or byproducts.
Flavored Fritos
Flavored Fritos often incorporate additional ingredients that may not be suitable for those following a vegan diet.
Chili Cheese: Contains dairy, not vegan
Flamin' Hot: May contain dairy, check label
BBQ: Can contain honey or other animal-derived ingredients, check label
Cross-Contamination
Individuals with strict vegan lifestyles may also consider potential cross-contamination with non-vegan products during manufacturing.
Conclusion
Consumers should always check the most recent product labels, as manufacturers can change their formulas.
Vegan
When assessing whether Fritos are suitable for a vegan diet, one should consider the ingredients used in manufacturing the chips. Original Fritos, Fritos Scoops, and Lightly Salted Fritos are made with just three ingredients: whole corn, corn oil, and salt. This simplistic ingredient list qualifies these particular flavors as vegan-friendly since they contain no animal-derived products.
In contrast, certain other Fritos flavors incorporate non-vegan ingredients. For example, some flavors may contain cheese or whey, which are derivatives of milk and thus not appropriate for vegans. It is crucial that vegans examine the labels of Fritos flavors beyond the Original, Scoops, and Lightly Salted to ensure they do not contain animal-based ingredients.
The following table provides a quick guide to the vegan status of Fritos varieties:
Flavor Vegan Status Original Fritos Vegan Fritos Scoops Vegan Lightly Salted Fritos Vegan Fritos Chili Cheese Not Vegan Other Flavored Varieties* Check Ingredients*
*For other flavored varieties not listed, always verify the ingredients label for dairy products like cheese or whey.
Consumers looking to maintain a plant-based diet can enjoy certain Fritos products without concern. Individuals should remain vigilant, checking labels for the presence of any animal-based ingredients in Fritos or any other processed snacks.
Flavor Twists
When considering the vegan status of Frito flavors beyond the original, it becomes a more complex landscape. Many flavored variants of Fritos contain non-vegan ingredients such as cheese and whey. Flavor additions, therefore, are critical in assessing whether a Frito product aligns with a vegan diet.
Frito flavors typically regarded as vegan:
Original Fritos
Lightly Salted Fritos
The above selections adhere to the basic ingredients list: corn, corn oil, and salt. They are free from animal-derived ingredients, which makes them suitable for a vegan diet.
On the other hand, flavored Fritos such as the Chili Cheese and Flamin' Hot varieties typically include non-vegan ingredients. One must be vigilant and read labels carefully; dairy components are often used to enhance the taste and texture of the chip.
Non-Vegan Ingredients Often Found in Flavored Fritos Cheese Whey Honey Milk derivatives
As a general principle, consumers seeking vegan options should opt for the simplest, unflavored versions of Fritos. For those inquiring about specific flavors, detailed ingredient checks are paramount. Providers may change their recipes, so one cannot assume that a previously vegan-friendly flavor remains so.
Flavor enhancements often lead to a departure from vegan-friendly status. This underscores the need for continuous scrutiny of product labels by those adhering to a vegan lifestyle.
Fritos Scoops
Fritos Scoops are a variety of corn chips by the Frito-Lay company, designed to be sturdier for dipping. They are recognized for their distinct scoop shape, catering to those who desire a more efficient way to pair chips with salsas and dips.
Ingredients:
Fritos Scoops contain the same essential ingredients as the original Fritos, namely:
Corn
Corn oil
Salt
Vegan-Friendly Aspect:
These basic ingredients ensure that Fritos Scoops align with a vegan diet, as they are free from animal-derived products. The simplicity of their composition is appealing to vegans who seek snack options without additives or hidden animal ingredients.
Points to Consider:
No Dairy: Unlike some flavored varieties, Fritos Scoops do not include dairy ingredients, such as whey or cheese, making them suitable for vegans.
Gluten-Free: Their three-ingredient list also means they are free from gluten, catering to those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Availability:
Consumers can find Fritos Scoops in most grocery stores and supermarkets where Frito-Lay products are sold.
It is important for consumers following a vegan diet to always double-check ingredient lists, as formulations can change. However, at the time of writing, Fritos Scoops remain a vegan-friendly option.
Fritos Chili Cheese
Fritos Chili Cheese flavor is a popular variant of Fritos corn chips. Unlike the original Fritos, which are made from just corn, corn oil, and salt, the Chili Cheese flavored Fritos contain additional ingredients that cater to those who prefer a spicier, cheesier snack.
The specific recipe for Fritos Chili Cheese includes a mix of seasonings and cheese flavor. Key ingredients comprise:
Corn: The base of the chip, providing the signature texture.
Cheese: Adds the creamy, tangy flavor characteristic of chili cheese.
Spices: A variety of spices are used to achieve the "chili" aspect of the flavor.
It is important to note that ingredients like cheese and other dairy products are used in this flavor, which makes it unsuitable for vegans.
For those following a vegan diet, it is crucial to check the label for ingredients such as:
Cheese
Milk
Whey
These ingredients are animal-derived and not part of a vegan diet. The presence of any one of these ingredients in Fritos Chili Cheese disqualifies it from being vegan-friendly.
In summary, while the original Fritos are vegan, the Chili Cheese variety is not due to its use of dairy products. Individuals adhering to a vegan lifestyle should avoid this flavor and opt for the plain version instead.
Fritos Flavor Twists
Fritos offers a variety of flavors beyond its original plain corn chips, known as "Frito's Flavor Twists." However, not all of these variations align with vegan dietary restrictions. It's essential to scrutinize the ingredients list when considering the vegan status of each flavor.
Non-Vegan Ingredients to Look Out For:
Cheese
Whey
Honey
Refined sugar (sometimes processed using bone char)
Certain "natural flavors" with animal-derived sources
For the vegan consumer, it is important to note that while the original Fritos are vegan, comprised solely of corn, corn oil, and salt, the Flavor Twists varieties often include non-vegan additives.
Typical Non-Vegan Flavor Twists Include:
Honey BBQ (contains honey)
Cheddar Ranch (contains milk derivatives)
The interest in vegan options has prompted the brand to maintain simplicity in their core product but the additional flavors tend to incorporate animal products, catering to a broader palette.
Consumers looking to maintain a vegan diet should typically steer clear of Fritos Flavor Twists, as their spiced and specialized tastes frequently include dairy products or other non-plant-based ingredients. Individuals may verify the vegan status by carefully reading the ingredients on the packaging of each flavor to ensure it aligns with their dietary choices.
Fritos BBQ Chips
Fritos BBQ chips present a flavor that appeals to many, but it raises questions for those following a vegan lifestyle. The primary concern for vegans is whether the flavoring contains animal-derived ingredients.
Ingredients to Consider:
Base: The chips start with a corn base, which is plant-derived and vegan-friendly.
Spices: A blend of chili, paprika, and onion powder is often included, which are all plant-based.
Additional Flavorings: Where vegans need to exercise caution is with the addition of flavorings like honey which is not vegan as it is produced by bees.
Animal Fats: Some Fritos BBQ flavors have been known to contain chicken fat.
Misleading Appearances: Despite BBQ Fritos' flavorful spice blend suggesting a plant-based snack, one must scrutinize the ingredient list to confirm its vegan status. Not all ingredients are overtly animal-derived, making vigilance a necessity.
Conclusion: Vegans should carefully examine the packaging and reach out to the manufacturer if needed, ensuring that no animal products are tucked away in the ingredient list of Fritos BBQ chips.
Fritos Flamin' Hot
When discussing vegan snack options, Fritos offers several varieties. However, their Flamin' Hot flavor does not align with a vegan diet. This specific variety includes ingredients that are sourced from animal products, making them unsuitable for those adhering to veganism.
Ingredients of Concern:
Cheese: Obtained from milk, a dairy product.
Milk: A direct animal byproduct.
Butter: Another dairy item derived from cream.
It's important for vegans to be aware that these ingredients are commonly found in many flavored chip products, including the Flamin' Hot variety of Fritos. This inclusion categorically classifies them as non-vegan.
Vegan-friendly Alternatives:
Original Fritos: Made with just corn, corn oil, and salt.
Despite the allure of the zesty Flamin' Hot flavor, vegans must steer clear of this variety due to its non-plant-based components. Consumers seeking vegan-friendly snacks can opt for the original Fritos, which maintain simplicity in their ingredient list, suitable for a vegan lifestyle.
Fritos Honey Bar-B-Q Twists
Fritos Flavor Twists Honey BBQ is a popular snack known for its unique spiral shape and sweet and smoky barbecue flavor. However, individuals adhering to a vegan diet must examine the ingredient list carefully.
Ingredients in Question:
Honey: This ingredient is derived from bees, categorizing it as an animal product. Vegans avoid honey, as it involves the exploitation of bees.
Refined Sugar: This can be processed using bone char from animals, making it non-vegan. However, this varies by manufacturer and region.
The presence of these ingredients suggests that Fritos Flavor Twists Honey BBQ would not fit into a vegan diet. Consumers interested in vegan products should opt for snacks free from animal derivatives and examine labels for certification or contact manufacturers directly for clarification.
It's important to note Fritos offers a variety of flavors, some of which may be vegan-friendly. Vegans seeking alternatives should consider plain or unflavored options, ensuring they exclude similar non-vegan ingredients.
Vegan-Friendly Alternatives:
Unflavored corn chips
Chips labeled with vegan certification
In summary, the inclusion of honey and the potential use of bone char in refined sugar indicate that Fritos Honey Bar-B-Q Twists are not suitable for those following a strict vegan lifestyle.
Fritos Bar-B-Q
Fritos Bar-B-Q chips were once a popular flavor among the brand’s lineup. The flavor profile combined the classic corn chip with a savory barbecue seasoning. However, it is important to note that this specific flavor is not suitable for a vegan diet due to certain ingredients.
Ingredients and Vegan Concerns:
Chicken Fat: This ingredient is an animal product, hence non-vegan.
Dairy Components: The BBQ flavor contained dairy derivatives like whey.
Honey: Found in the Honey BBQ variant, honey is not considered vegan.
It was reported that consumer demand led to Fritos reintroducing the Bar-B-Q flavor after replacing it with the Honey BBQ twist. Nonetheless, vegans should be cautious and avoid this flavor due to its non-vegan ingredients.
Cross-Contamination:
While the main ingredients might not be vegan, another concern is cross-contamination. Fritos are produced in facilities where non-vegan products are also processed. Although the risk may be minimal, it is a notable factor for strict vegans to consider.
Alternatives:
For those seeking a vegan option, Fritos offers several other flavors that are free from animal-derived ingredients. These include:
Original Fritos: Made with just corn, corn oil, and salt.
Lightly Salted Fritos: Similar to the Original with less salt.
In summary, vegans should steer clear of Fritos Bar-B-Q and opt for the explicitly vegan-friendly varieties of Fritos chips.
Vegan Fritos
When examining the range of Fritos products, one can confidently identify several options suitable for a vegan diet. The original Fritos variety stands out as a clear contender for those following plant-based eating patterns. Its ingredients are minimalistic yet sufficient, comprising:
Corn: A fundamental and versatile grain.
Corn Oil: A plant-based oil utilized in the frying process.
Salt: Added for flavor enhancement.
These ingredients come together to form a snack that's devoid of animal-derived components, making them vegan-friendly.
However, it's important to note that not all Frito flavors align with vegan principles. Vegans should be cautious with flavored varieties as they may contain ingredients like cheese or whey, which are derived from milk. Specifically:
Flavored options such as Chili Cheese and Flamin' Hot are likely to contain dairy or other non-vegan ingredients.
Scoops and Lightly Salted varieties maintain a vegan profile akin to the original.
For individuals meticulously avoiding all forms of animal products, cross-contamination could be a concern if products are manufactured on shared equipment. Consumers are encouraged to check the packaging for the most current ingredient listings and allergen information.
In summary, vegans can enjoy certain Fritos products, particularly the Original, Scoops, and Lightly Salted, which do not contain animal-derived ingredients.
Corn Flour
Corn flour serves as the primary ingredient in Fritos and is pivotal in determining whether the snack fits into a vegan diet. The flour is derived from the milling of dried corn, which is a process that transforms corn kernels into a fine powder. It should be noted that this corn flour is gluten-free and plant-based, making it suitable for those following a vegan diet and those with gluten sensitivities.
The manufacturing process includes several steps. First, the corn is soaked, allowing the kernels to soften. This step is crucial as it prepares the corn for grinding. After soaking, the softened corn is ground into corn flour. It is this flour that forms the foundation for Fritos chips.
In the production of Fritos, corn flour is mixed with two other vegan-friendly ingredients:
Corn oil
Salt
Corn oil enhances the flavor and texture of the chips while providing the necessary fat for the frying process. Salt is added for taste.
Here's a breakdown of the ingredients in the classic Fritos recipe:
Ingredient Purpose Vegan Status Corn Flour Base for the chip Vegan Corn Oil Flavor, texture, and frying Vegan Salt Enhances taste Vegan
The simplicity of the recipe assures that the base product, specifically the Original, Scoops, and Lightly Salted Fritos, remains vegan as no animal-derived ingredients are included. These chips preserve the natural essence of their core ingredient, the corn flour, and are an option for those on a vegan diet.
PepsiCo
PepsiCo, the parent company of Fritos, has a firm commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. In 2021, PepsiCo reported that approximately 50% of their key ingredients were sustainably sourced, striving for a goal of 100%. This initiative includes crops and vegetable oils, which are essential components in Frito production.
In terms of dietary guidelines, PepsiCo defines products as vegan if they do not contain any ingredients or processing aids sourced from, produced, or processed by animals. This definition encompasses the absence of meat, poultry, fish, eggs, gelatin, dairy, animal enzymes, honey, and sugar refined with animal bone char.
Concerning cross-contamination, it is important to note that while Fritos' ingredients are vegan, they are manufactured in facilities that handle non-vegan items. PepsiCo acknowledges this and indicates a potential for cross-contamination, which may be a concern for strict vegans.
Key Points Details Sustainable Sourcing 50% of key ingredients as of 2021 Vegan Definition No animal products or by-products Potential Cross-Contamination Manufactured in shared facilities
PepsiCo demonstrates its recognition of diverse dietary choices and maintains transparency regarding its products and processes, which includes its approach to veganism within its range of snack options.
Charles Elmer Doolin
Charles Elmer Doolin, the inventor of Fritos and the founder of The Frito Company, was an innovative entrepreneur with a visionary approach to snack foods. Born in 1903 in Kansas, Doolin purchased a corn chips business from a San Antonio-based entrepreneur in the early 1930s and built it into an iconic American brand.
Known for his meticulous nature and commitment to perfecting his product, Doolin was constantly experimenting with his recipes and manufacturing processes. Despite his dedication to the creation of Fritos, he was known to adhere closely to dietary advice from Dr. Herbert M. Shelton, a proponent of natural hygiene and raw-foodism, which led to speculation that he rarely, if ever, consumed his own Fritos products.
Facts about Charles Elmer Doolin:
Birth Year: 1903
Founded: The Frito Company in 1932
Innovations: Fritos and Cheetos
Dietary Influence: Dr. Herbert M. Shelton
Business Acumen: Purchased a small corn chips business; transformed it into a nationwide success
Doolin's resolve to create a staple snack for American households resulted in a simple yet popular recipe. Fritos were made of just three ingredients: cornmeal, corn oil, and salt. This simplicity also led to their compatibility with vegan diets, as they contained no animal-derived ingredients.
The legacy of Charles Elmer Doolin endures not only through the brand he created but also through the dietary standards he held himself to, which could have inadvertently contributed to the vegan-friendly nature of his snack products.
Texas
The origins of Fritos, the widely recognized brand of corn chips, can be traced back to Texas. In 1932, Charles Elmer Doolin purchased a corn chips recipe from a local San Antonio business. He then began making the first Fritos in his mother's kitchen with this recipe, which was relatively simple and vegan-friendly. The core ingredients were cornmeal, oil, and salt, all of which are vegan.
Fritos have maintained a strong presence in Texas. Over time, Frito-Lay, the parent company of Fritos, has become synonymous with Texas snack food culture. While the classic Fritos recipe remains unchanged, the brand has expanded to include non-vegan flavors that feature cheese and other animal-derived ingredients. However, the original Fritos corn chips still hold to their vegan roots.
In contemporary Texas, Fritos are not just a snack but also an ingredient in iconic dishes like the Frito Pie, a popular comfort food with Tex-Mex flavors. To accommodate the dietary preferences of vegans:
Substitute dairy cheese with vegan cheese.
Use vegan chili instead of traditional chili, which often contains meat.
It should be noted that while the basic Fritos remain vegan, potential cross-contamination could occur in manufacturing facilities handling non-vegan products. This may be a consideration for consumers with strict vegan requirements.
Ultimately, the Texas-born Fritos continues to offer a vegan option with its original flavor, staying true to its origins and providing a snack choice for a broad range of consumers.
