The Lion's Den

The Truth About Takis

By Kaileen Fermin, Staff Writer

December 19, 2023

Takis has marked the most purchased chip from 2016 to 2019 and is still thriving, however the real question is, do Takis’ loyal customers know enough about Takis chips? “Since our Takis Fuego was first introduced in the United States in 2006, the snack has exploded in popularity, especially among teenagers,” said Rubén Herrera, Vice President of Barcel USA. With that being said, there is a reason for the extensive popularity and “obsession” with Takis.

First things first, the creator of the acclaimed Takis chips is Barcel. Barcel is a Mexican company that produces tortillas, potato chips, and a variety of other snack and candy foods. It is part of the Grupo Bimbos, which was established in 1950. The company has its registered office in Lerma, Mexico. Invented in Mexico in 1999, Takis was launched in the US in 2004 and Canada in 2015. Initially, Barcel's goal was to target the Latin American snack market with Takis, but it quickly gained popularity among teens of all cultural backgrounds.

With their bold packaging, bright colors, and unique shape, they are easily recognizable and highly sought after by snack lovers of all ages. The intense flavor comes from a deep red seasoning powder that coats fingers and tongues alike. The snack gained popularity in 2012 with the release of a YouTube rap titled “Hot Cheetos and Takis”, which gained over one million views in just 20 days. As of today, the rap has just above 16 million views. One of the main reasons why Takis is still so popular is because of its unique and intense taste profile. When you combine bold spices, chili, and lime, you’ll get an intense taste experience that’s both addicting and satisfying. With every bite, you’re met with a blast of heat and a tang that leaves you wanting more, me included.

Despite the fantastic flavor, Takis chips are not only high in sodium but also low in essential vitamins and minerals. The chips are also highly processed and highly refined. Studies have shown that regular consumption of processed foods, especially Takis chips, may increase the risk of heart disease, cancer, obesity, and Type 2 diabetes. The side effects of indulging in Takis are ulcers and gastritis. Allegedly, a toddler got throat cancer from eating too many Takis and pediatricians are now claiming that because Takis increase stomach acidity and even turn feces red or orange.

After researching the ingredients, I've found every scary chemical component, and I will break it down for you. First is Monosodium Glutamate (and very similarly followed by Hydrolyzed Soy Protein and Yeast Extract). Those are called MSGs, and MSGs are added to make you crave Takis so you keep eating, and eating. Their product’s addictive taste lacks consideration of the customer, as the consumption leads to weight gain and soon obesity. There's no reason why food companies should be using MSG, it's just a sales tactic and kids are falling for it. I surely don't want to eat food that tricks my brain into wanting more. Next up is flavors. It’s also the synthetic flavors that provide the compulsion to overeat, creating once again that craving. Last to mention is the artificial colors (Red 40 and Yellow 6), they are known to cause cancer because they contain a cancer-causing chemical called benzidine. Artificial colors (like Red 40 and Yellow 6) even require a warning label in Europe that states they cause hyperactivity in children.

So with that being said, Barcel has an amazing sales tactic, but it's attracted the wrong audience. Kids around the world will keep purchasing Takis because of its addictive properties and eye-catching bag, but beware of the risks you will be putting yourself in when digesting it.