Lay's has revealed their newest potato chip flavor, and it has some spice to it. The company declared Wasabi Ginger to be this year's winner of their "Do Us a Flavor" contest. The contest asked people to submit their own unique flavor ideas, with four finalists having their flavor created and sold in stores.
The finalists— Wasabi Ginger, Cheddar Bacon Mac & Cheese, Mango Salsa and Cappuccino— were introduced in July, and people were able to try them and vote online for their favorite through this weekend. Over 1 million votes were cast, although we assume the demand wasn't high for Cappuccino. The coffee-flavored chip received some backlash from commenters on Lay's Facebook page. Still, the three non-winning finalists, even Cappuccino, will receive $50,000.
The contest winner, New Jersey nurse Meneko Spigner McBeth, will receive $1 million or 1% of the chip's yearly sales, depending on which amount is larger. McBeth said she was inspired by her Japanese grandmother, who would often use wasabi in her cooking. Lay's chief marketing officer Ram Krishnan believes that Wasabi Ginger winning indicates that consumers are branching out and more interested in exotic flavors.
Whether or not you plan on trying out the Wasabi Ginger chips, I think we can all agree: coffee and chips just don't mix.
