Walkers has sent shockwaves through the crisp aisle with a dramatic overhaul of its beloved Salt 'n' Shake packets, marking the most significant change to the iconic snack in years.
The Great Crisp Transformation
The classic blue packets that have graced British lunchboxes for generations are undergoing a complete makeover. Walkers has confirmed sweeping changes that will affect both the crisps inside and the packaging outside, leaving many loyal customers wondering if their favourite snack will ever be the same.
What's Actually Changing?
The modifications are substantial and touch every aspect of the Salt 'n' Shake experience:
- Reduced Salt Content: The separate salt sachet now contains significantly less salt, cutting content by approximately 17%
- New Packaging Design: A fresh, modern look replaces the traditional blue wrapper
- Updated Ingredients: The crisp recipe itself has been tweaked for the new formulation
Why Walkers Made The Change
This isn't just a random recipe shuffle. Walkers states the changes are part of a broader health initiative aligned with Public Health England's salt reduction targets. A spokesperson explained: "We're constantly looking at ways to improve our products while maintaining the great taste our consumers know and love."
The move follows increasing pressure on food manufacturers to help address the nation's health concerns, particularly around salt consumption and its impact on blood pressure and heart health.
Public Reaction: Crisp Controversy Brewing
As news of the changes spreads, crisp enthusiasts are divided. Social media platforms are buzzing with mixed reactions from long-time Salt 'n' Shake devotees.
Some welcome the health-conscious approach, while others mourn what they see as the dilution of a British classic. "First they changed the Wotsits, now this?" one disappointed fan commented online, capturing the sentiment of those resistant to change.
The Nostalgia Factor
For many Brits, Salt 'n' Shake crisps represent more than just a snack—they're a piece of childhood nostalgia. The ritual of opening the blue packet, finding the separate salt sachet, and personally deciding how much seasoning to add has been a unique crisp experience for generations.
This emotional connection explains why even minor changes to such iconic products often spark strong reactions from the public.
What This Means For Crisp Lovers
The new Salt 'n' Shake packets are already hitting supermarket shelves across the UK. While the core concept remains—you still get to control your salt level—the experience will be noticeably different for those with discerning taste buds.
Whether this represents a positive step forward for public health or the end of a crisp era depends on your perspective. One thing's certain: the Great British crisp landscape will never be quite the same.
