PepsiCo India, the renowned company behind the popular Lay’s potato chip brand, is experimenting with a new oil blend for its Lay’s potato chips. The traditional use of palm oil and palmolein is being swapped for a blend that incorporates sunflower oil alongside palmolein.
In the United States, PepsiCo utilizes “heart-healthy” oils like sunflower, corn, and canola for its Lay’s potato chips, emphasizing their potential benefits in managing cholesterol levels within a balanced diet. The company has initiated trials for the new oil blend across some of its products since last year, positioning PepsiCo as a pioneering player in the Indian food industry.
In this context, the PepsiCo India Spokesperson quoted- “PepsiCo is dedicated to producing high-quality, great-tasting products in every market where we operate. There are often different recipes for foods or drinks in different countries, which is attributed to several factors such as local preferences, manufacturing capabilities, ingredient availability and market dynamics. Ingredients are listed on every product we sell in India, allowing consumers to make conscious decisions about their purchases. In this context, PepsiCo India initiated trials of a blend of Sunflower Oil and Palmolein Oil in certain parts of our portfolio last year, becoming one of the few players in the food industry in India to do so.”
Beyond oil changes, PepsiCo India is also committed to reducing salt content in its snacks. By targeting sodium levels at or below 1.3 milligrams per calorie by 2025, the company aims to align its offerings with evolving dietary preferences and health considerations.
In addition to Lay’s, PepsiCo India’s food lineup features brands like Doritos, Kurkure, and Quaker, with plans to ensure that at least 75% of its food products meet the stipulated sodium target by 2025. Recognizing the importance of regional tastes and preferences, PepsiCo tailors its recipes to suit local markets by leveraging available ingredients, production facilities, and market trends. Moreover, transparent ingredient labeling empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their food choices.
