Doritos launches safe-for-outer-space tortilla chips

As SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission is preparing for its launch on 26 August, Doritos have launched a new, safe-for-outer-space version of their classic tortilla chips. The astronauts aboard the mission will be the first ever to enjoy the snack elsewhere than on Earth, but regular people will get a chance to enjoy the limited edition “Doritos minis Cool Ranch Zero Gravity flavored tortilla chip” too.

Polaris Dawn, a commercial mission on a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft with four private astronauts aboard, will write history for multiple reasons and they will, amongst other things, become the first people to eat Doritos in space. Food scientists at FritoLay (PepsiCo), the company behind Doritos, have adapted the classic format of the chips in order to be compatible with a mission in outer space.

Normal Doritos chips have never had the chance to be eaten during such a mission given the threat that their dust and crumbs pose to spacecraft systems. The limited edition has now been altered in two significant ways to change that. Firstly, the classic powdered topping has been switched out for an oil-based coating in order to create less dust. Secondly, the chips come in bite-sized portions, which limits the amount of crumbs created while eating. Similar techniques have been used by space agencies like NASA in the past in order to provide safe-for-outer-space food for astronauts. Moreover, the tinned packaging has also been adapted to the mission.

“The limitless possibilities of space inspired us to push the boundaries of what’s possible,” said Chris Bellinger, chief creative officer of PepsiCo Foods North America. “This mission is a testament to our commitment to delivering bold experiences and flavours, even in the most unexpected places.”

Those who aren’t among the lucky four to be aboard the Polaris Dawn and who still want to get a taste of the chips can get a chance to do so by donating to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. By doing so, donators can also get their hands on mission-inspired memorabilia. A 500,000 dollar donation has already been made by Doritos in order the advance the hospital’s research.

“We are truly grateful for the generous support of Doritos as we reach new heights together,” said Richard C. Shadyac Jr., President and CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organisation behind St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “By joining forces with Doritos and the Polaris Program, St. Jude is uniting communities while inspiring individuals to live charitably. It is because of partnerships like this that St. Jude is able to continue its bold mission of finding cures and saving children, everywhere.”