Why shoppers are demanding this flavor be returned
WALKERS Crisps have been a firm favorite in Britain long before former footballer Gary Lineker was known for his obsession with snacks.
However, fans of the original BBQ Ribs flavored chips are calling for a comeback after it was discontinued many years ago.
What were Walkers BBQ Rib Chips?
Walkers BBQ Ribs chips were considered one of the flavors of the decades.
The meaty, rich scent wafted out of the crisp packet as soon as you opened them.
And the perfect blend of spices, including paprika, and smoky flavor made it a real playground favorite.
The Leicester-based snack manufacturer has revived several varieties for its 70th anniversary, including Coronation Chicken (1950s), Roast Lamb and Mint (1960s), Cheese Fondue (1970s), Chicken Tikka Masala (1980s), BBQ Ribs (1990s) and sweet chili (1990s) 2000s).
In December 2023, limited edition packs of BBQ pork ribs were spotted in the aisles of a B&M, much to the dismay of consumers who called for the return of the original.
When and why were Walkers BBQ rib chips discontinued?
For unknown reasons, Walkers quietly phased out the flavor several years ago.
Despite its revival as part of Walkers Flavors of the Decades collection, it somehow failed to regain its original appeal.
It hasn’t stopped fans from calling for its return through online petitions.
At least 100 people signed the BBQ rib petition founded by Joe Hall, in which he set out his impassioned plea for the return of taste: “BBQ Rib is a true British classic – the chips we were raised on.”
The company, which was founded in 1948 by the Englishman Henry Walker, saw profits remain more or less the same.
However, the PepsiCo company is his sights are set on expanding his activities to meet the growing demand for Wotsits Giants and Monster Munch Giants, which are currently produced in Europe.
As part of this strategy, the company is modernizing manufacturing facilities at its main UK manufacturing site in Beaumont Leys with an investment of £58 million.
Jason Richards, senior vice president and general manager at PepsiCo UK and Ireland, said: “2023 marks 75 years of Walkers crisps, so there is no better time to renew our commitment to Leicester – a city and community that is crucial to our success in Britain.”
Their shifting focus towards green energy production and expansion into other sectors may have diverted their attention from the production of these cherished snacks.
Unfortunately, the crisp brand added its Marmite flavor to the list of discontinued products in early 2024.
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A Walkers spokesperson told The Sun: “We are very sorry to disappoint fans of Marmite flavored Walkers crisps with this. news.
“We know many crisp lovers will be unhappy to see this Walkers flavor disappear.
“This change will allow us to focus our efforts on making more of the flavors that chip fans love most.”
It was the fifth crispy flavor Walkers had stopped producing in three months, joining Worcestershire Sauce, Beef and Onion and Sensations Regal Lamb and Mint crisps.
What looks like Walkers BBQ rib chips?
The obvious option is Walkers’ new limited-edition BBQ Pork Ribs flavour, which, contrary to the name, is actually vegan.
The company says it guarantees a fresh taste, without added MSG, artificial colors or preservatives.
This is part of their new range of Unbelievable Vegan crisps, which offers a selection of meat and cheese flavors that are surprisingly vegan.
While it doesn’t necessarily have the same crunch, Hula Hoops Big Hoops BBQ Beef is a reasonable alternative.
Lays BBQ Ribs Crisps offer a similar burst of rich, spicy sweetness, now available to UK consumers.
If you don’t mind ridges, McCoy’s Bangin’ BBQ Potato Crisps might be another option when reminiscing about Walkers.
And once you pop, you usually can’t stop with Pringles Hot Smokin’ BBQ Ribs.