el supermercado in spain

“surprising efficacy!”

“activators eliminate stains”

this is for my friend elena, for whom a spanish laundry detergent is named. if you think that’s unusual, i went shopping for dishwashing liquid and a spaniard suggested i buy the “fairy” brand because it works better. (i later found out this is a UK brand.) the signature flavor for lay’s potato chips in spain is jamón ibérico (the delicious spanish version of prosciutto).

and just in case you were curious, the wikipedia entry for lay’s potato chips lists several of the flavors adapted for consumers abroad (emphasis mine):

Outside North America, Lay’s in Greece and Cyprus are made and packed by Tasty Foods and Corina Snacks LTD, with Mediterranean flavors which include Feta cheese flavor, Tzatziki flavor, Olive and Tomato, Oregano, Sea Salt & Black Pepper and various more. There are hundreds of sub-variations of the Mediterranean line and the company performs constant experimentations to create new flavors and adjust them to each country’s liking. In some countries such as Argentina variations of the Mediterranean tastes exist include Olive Oil and Parmesan Cheese, Olive Oil and Tomato, Olive Oil and Basil, Greek Tzatziki Cheese with onions, Lasagna, Beef Carpaccio with Parmeggiano and Smoked Manchego Cheese. In Belgium there is a version of Cucumber and Goats Cheese. Finally in Chile there is a version of Lemon and Cilantro (Coriander) and Sour Cream and Onions.

In Australia, a cilantro version exists while a hot & sweet chili, sweet corn and cotija cheese brand can be found in South America.

Another flavor sold primarily in southern Asia is called “Magic Masala.” This flavor is very popular in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Flavors featured in Thailand include Nori Seaweed, Korean Bulgogi and Green Tea.

There are a number of unique products in the United Kingdom sold under the Walkers label, including prawn cocktail, beef & onion, Greek kebab and Marmite yeast extract. Under the Smith’s label in Australia, unique flavors include Greek Feta & Herb and Italian Tomato & Basil.

Russia has “Lay’s MAX” chips (Chicken, Sourcream & Onion, Sourcream & Cheese, Ham & cheese flavors) and some international “Lay’s” flavors plus Russian “Lay’s” flavor – Mushrooms & Sourcream.

In Ukraine there is crab, bacon, cheddar, and sour cream and green onion

i like shrimp chips but the idea of a prawn cocktail potato chip seems so strange. figures, it’s british. and while russians may embrace their sour cream, wikipedia says:

Interestingly the name ’sour cream’ has got Lay’s into a lot of confusion in some countries. In India for instance the name was changed to style cream after consumers reported their discomfort with the idea of ’sour’ cream

can you imagine asking your waiter for some “style cream” with your burrito?