Kettle Brand

Kettle Brand is an American potato chip brand famous for producing Kettle Cooked potato chips, a frying method using a large Kettle pot that results in exceptionally crispy, thick, and uniquely textured chips, distinct from conventional potato chips.

What Does "Kettle Cooked" Mean?

Kettle Cooked refers to potato chips fried using a Kettle pot or large pan, a traditional method of potato chip production from the pre-industrial era. These chips are characterized by their exceptional crispiness, thickness, and denser texture. They might sometimes feel slightly harder than regular potato chips, a result of the slower frying process and different oil absorption into the chip's texture.

A Passion for Natural Beginnings

The story of Kettle Brand began in 1977 with Cameron Healy, a man passionate about simple, natural foods. At that time, he was an independent entrepreneur selling goods from his van in Oregon, USA, starting with peanut butter and cheese. Driven by his interest in quality ingredients and natural production processes, he developed the concept for a distinct potato chip brand that stood out from others on the market.

In that era, most potato chips were mass-produced using industrial processes focused on speed and low cost, often resulting in flavors and quality that were unsatisfactory for those concerned with health and food quality. Cameron saw an opportunity to create chips that were tastier, healthier, and unique. He began experimenting with his own chip-making method, emphasizing high-quality ingredients and a simple yet meticulous production process.

The Secret to the Crisp: The Kettle Cooked Process

The secret to his chips' production lies in the Kettle Cooked process, as mentioned earlier. This frying method differs from continuous frying on large production lines. The potatoes used are sliced slightly thicker and fried in high-quality oil, such as Safflower oil, then seasoned with sea salt, without any added MSG, artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners.

Frying in small batches using the Kettle Cooked method allows the potatoes to cook slowly, resulting in an exceptionally crunchy texture and a clearer, more pronounced potato flavor. Furthermore, this process helps reduce oil absorption, making Cameron's chips lower in fat than many conventional potato chips on the market.

From a Van to a Global Brand

Initially, Cameron used his van to sell these chips at local festivals, farmers' markets, and small stores in Oregon. His chips were exceptionally well-received. People loved their natural flavor, unique crunch, and the good feeling that came from consuming carefully produced potato chips.

Encouraged by the initial positive reception, Cameron was confident in the potential of his chips. In 1982, he officially founded Kettle Foods, Inc. and began expanding production, while firmly adhering to the Kettle Cooked method and the use of high-quality ingredients.

After achieving success in the U.S. market, Cameron recognized opportunities abroad. He established a new factory in 1988 in Norwich, England, and began producing chips for sale across Europe. This factory later became the main facility in the UK. Subsequently, in 1989, the company expanded its operations to Vancouver, Canada, and in 2001, an additional factory was opened in Springfield, Ohio, USA.

Environmental Responsibility and Diverse Flavors

One of Kettle Brand's strengths is its commitment to environmental care and social responsibility. The company emphasizes sourcing ingredients from local farmers in the Pacific Northwest. In 2003, it installed the largest solar panel array in the Pacific Northwest to power its factory with clean energy. Additionally, the company received LEED Gold Certification as the most environmentally friendly food manufacturing plant in the United States.

Today, Kettle Brand offers a wide variety of chip flavors, including Sea Salt, Salt & Vinegar, Barbeque, and many more. Each flavor is meticulously developed to achieve a balanced and unique taste.

You can find Kettle Brand potato chips at all Rimping Supermarket branches!