This Hot Potato Chip Trend is Already Over

Calbee fOODS

Originally founded as Matsuo Food Processing Co. in 1949, this Japanese company changed its name to Calbee Foods Co., Ltd in 1973. Though they now have numerous brands and products, Calbee's first big hit was their shrimp-flavored crackers in the 1960's, and the company has been making potato chips since the mid-70s. 

Through the years, Calbee has become a beloved brand all over the world, but especially in East Asian countries. Their snack brand is known for its innovation and variety. 

Microwavable Potato Chips

After two years of development, Calbee Foods launched their "microwavable potato chip" line in Japan last week. Debuting in butter soy sauce and pizza flavors, the idea was to encourage potato-chip-enthusiasts to eat their favorite snack hot from the microwave, instead of simply popping open a bag and chowing down. 

The bag was supposedly engineered to go directly into the microwave with no fuss. Since the majority of convenience stores in Japan have a microwave available to customers, it seemed like a fun and innovative way to change the potato chip-eating experience...

Except that within three days' time, the new product had already been recalled. The reason? The bags were reportedly starting fires! It's unclear whether the fires were because of faulty design or incorrect heating by consumers. 

It seems that microwavable ready-made potato chips are still just a pipe dream. 

For now.

Until then, we just have to make this recipe.

Still hungry? Check out the Weirdest Potato Chip Flavors Around the World.