Eco-razzy: American Snack Consumers

Really? Seriously? A major American manufacturer of snack chips goes all out of its way to produce a biodegradable bag to package it's snacks in, and Americans force it off the market? Why would they do such a thing?

Well because the bags are noisy. The crinkly sound hurts their wimpy little ears. Seriously what. the. hell. America?

So now, Frito-Lay will return to packaging made of plastic for five of the six varieties of SunChips.  It will keep the biodegradable and recyclable bags for the original, plain flavor.  The flavor most favored by earthy, crunchy types whose tolerance for noise produced by planet-friendly bags is apparently higher than those who favor the Spicy Chipotle flavor.

According to the Frito-Lay website the bags are made from plant based materials and are designed to compost in about 14 weeks when placed in a hot, active compost bin or pile. That is awesome!

Apparently, it's not awesome enough for most consumers to put up with... sound. Hey, if you need to snack in secret that is an issue all your own, please don't take it out on the planet.

I admit, I tried the  SunChips biodegradable bag and it is loud, laughably so. But that is all I did - laugh and say "this bag is crazy!"  I didn't go to YouTube to post a video complaint. However many  consumers did complain.  Sales declined each month the bags were on the market and Frito-Lay felt forced to return to plastic.

At least, until they can come up with an amazing bag that biodegrades in 14 days and is quiet enough for America.  Frito-Lay says they remain committed to finding a more popular sustainable bag solution.

Would you rather have your snacks in noisy bags or live on litter covered planet landfill?  Hmmm, I guess you could always eat the chips from a bowl... and still hear the TV.