Why the BJP is Not Responsible for the Disappearance of Cheetos and Cadbury Bytes in India

There is a common misconception that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a major Indian political party, has banned certain snacks like Cheetos and Cadbury Bytes. However, the reality is quite different. Let’s delve into the reasons behind the reduced availability of these products in the Indian market.

Cheetos: The Rise and Fall

Cheetos, a popular snack manufactured by PepsiCo, had its heyday in India, particularly among younger generations who were indoctrinated by the Pokémon craze. In the 1990s and early 2000s, Cheetos enjoyed a surge in popularity because of its association with the beloved Pokémon animated series. Kids and teenagers, eager to catch more Pokémon, would purchase Cheetos daily, often tossing or sharing most of the contents of their bags.

This rapid increase in demand led to a significant uptick in sales. However, as the Pokémon trend faded, so did the demand for Cheetos. Without a steady consumer base, shops found it less profitable to carry any unsold products, especially those nearing their “best before” date. As a result, the demand for Cheetos diminished significantly, leading to a general reduction in its availability.

Cadbury Bytes: The Profit Margins

Cadbury Bytes, on the other hand, faced challenges due to poor sales performance. These small chocolate bars, produced by the Cadbury brand (acquired by Kraft Foods), were never as popular as expected. Even after promotional campaigns, the profit margins remained low. The decision to discontinue Cadbury Bytes was ultimately made by Kraft Foods based on market performance and business economics.

It is important to note that the decision to stop the production and distribution of Cadbury Bytes was purely a commercial one and had nothing to do with any political party in India, including the BJP. The Indian government, through its Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSI), does not have the authority to ban specific food items. Only manufacturers and importers have this power based on market demand and business strategies.

Conclusion

In summary, the reduced availability of Cheetos and Cadbury Bytes in India is not a result of any ban by the BJP or any political party. It is a reflection of changing consumer preferences and market dynamics. Both manufacturers, PepsiCo and Kraft Foods, decided to align their strategies with the prevailing conditions in the Indian market. This decision is primarily driven by consumer demand and economic considerations rather than political influence.

Keywords: Cheetos, Cadbury Bytes, BJP