Fritos Brand Celebrates 80th Anniversary

PLANO, Texas -- On Oct. 1, the Fritos brand of corn chips will celebrate its 80th anniversary by setting out to achieve a world record for the biggest-ever Fritos Chili Pie. The Guinness World Records title attempt will take place at the State Fair of Texas, the biggest fair in the United States.

"For 80 years, Fritos corn chips have been an important piece of Americana," said Tony Matta, vice president of marketing for Frito-Lay Inc.. "Our Guinness World Records title attempt will not only add a new milestone to our proud history, it will also serve as a hearty celebration for this timeless snack."

Starting at 10 a.m. CDT on Oct. 1, state fair attendees can join the fun as the oversized Fritos Chili Pie is constructed in Big Tex Circle, where the famed fair mascot Big Tex himself will be. If a Guinness World Records title is set, an official adjudicator will verify the accomplishment and the tasty "pie," along with a variety of Pepsi beverages, will be shared with the fairgoers.

Fritos is also inviting fans across America to join its 80th anniversary celebration by contributing to an important cause. The brand is partnering with Hormel Chili to support U.S. troops through the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). From Sept. 16 through Oct. 13, consumers can look for special displays at local retailers featuring a $1-off coupon for a combined purchase of Fritos corn chips and Hormel Chili. For every coupon redeemed, Fritos and Hormel Foods will donate $1 to WWP, up to $100,000, to honor and empower wounded warriors in the U.S. Armed Forces.

The Fritos brand was born in 1932 when Elmer Doolin purchased a corn chips recipe from a local businessman and began making the first Fritos chips right from his mother's kitchen with a converted potato ricer. In 1961, Doolin joined forces with H.W. Lay & Co. to create Frito-Lay Inc. Doolin's mother, Daisy Dean Doolin, created recipes to help market Fritos corn chips by using them as an ingredient in a wide range of dishes, including the now-famous Fritos Chili Pie.