News on Chips and Snacks from the Americas

Reading Bakery Systems will host a hands-on Pretzel Training Seminar Feb 3–4, 2026 in PA, offering demos, activities, and expert guidance on pretzel production for both new and experienced makers. Limited space; registration required.

Boulder Canyon and Grillo’s Pickles reunite to launch new Wavy Grillo’s Classic Dill Pickle Chips, blending bold dill, garlic, and vinegar flavors with avocado-oil-cooked wavy chips. The gluten-free, non-GMO snack debuts nationwide at Sprouts this November.

Frito-Lay to close its Orlando plant on May 9, 2026, affecting 500 jobs. The facility, open since 1965, will see production & distribution shift to larger PepsiCo sites, boosting efficiency but changing regional logistics.

PepsiCo has introduced a new logo and corporate look that reflects its global vision and evolving brand identity.

Lay’s unveils its biggest redesign in nearly 100 years, celebrating its farm-to-chip heritage. With real, farm-grown potatoes, new natural recipes, and refreshed packaging, Lay’s commits to no artificial flavors or colors in the U.S. by 2025.

PepsiCo, Inc. (NASDAQ: PEP), a leading global food and beverage company with a portfolio that includes iconic brands such as Pepsi, Lay’s, Gatorade, Quaker, and Doritos has reported results for the third quarter 2025.

Cornell marks 160 years of potato breeding, creating 50+ varieties—including top U.S. chip potatoes and nematode-resistant strains. Farmer partnerships and USDA support drive innovation, boosting sustainability and the USD 100B U.S. potato industry.

Covered Bridge Potato Chips has reopened in Woodstock, N.B., after a 2024 fire destroyed its Hartland plant. The new site restores jobs and flavours, while Hartland hopes for its return and keeps the old location open as a gift shop and attraction.

Key Technology introduces COMPASS® optical sorter for potato chips at Pack Expo. Belt-fed with easy-to-use interface, it removes defects and foreign material, ensures food safety, boosts efficiency, enables fast cleaning, and offers IIoT analytics.

Backer’s Potato Chips upgraded its aging bulk storage system with Vanmark’s six-bin solution, boosting unloading speed, reducing downtime, and cutting maintenance costs—allowing the family business to focus on growth and meeting rising demand.

SNAC International, the leading trade association for the snack industry, is proud to announce it will host the 2025 Industry Legal & Regulatory Forum on November 11–12, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

TNA Solutions will showcase the tna conti-pro PEL 3 fryer and integrated systems at PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2025, booth W‑2350, offering efficient pellet/extruded snack frying, seamless distribution, automated packaging, and less waste.

Chick-fil-A launches new menu items Aug. 18, including the Pretzel Cheddar Club Sandwich, Cherry Berry beverages, and Waffle Potato Chips in Original and Chick-fil-A Sauce flavors, available as a side, snack, or retail bag in select locations.

UTZ launches limited-edition Lemonade Potato Chips, blending tart citrus with savory crunch for a sweet-salty summer twist. Available now at select retailers, these bright, nostalgic chips are part of UTZ’s bold seasonal flavor lineup.

Zapp’s® launches Bayou Blackened Ranch Kettle Chips, blending Cajun-style blackened seasoning with zesty ranch for a bold Louisiana taste. Available in 1.5, 2.5, and 8 oz bags nationwide and online, delivering the brand’s signature crunch and flavor.

Productores de Huánuco acordaron vender 2975 toneladas de papa variedad Capiro a Inka Crops, en un contrato que beneficiará a más de 900 familias y fortalecerá la integración de la agricultura familiar al mercado agroindustrial.

Utz Brands, Inc., a leading U.S. manufacturer of branded Salty Snacks and a small-cap value staples equity, has reported financial results for the Company’s second fiscal quarter ended June 29, 2025. 

PepsiCo, a leading global food and beverage company whose portfolio includes iconic brands such as Pepsi, Lay’s, Gatorade, Quaker, and Doritos, reported its results for the second quarter of 2025.