The Nicest Rejection Letter I've Received In Some Time!

Originally posted on Facebook
by Blane Mather on Friday, May 7, 2010 at 12:44pm

I am in the habit of writing manufacturers from time to time about products I like, especially when they are discontinued. My most recent cause for writing was on the occasion of Frito-Lay discontinuing the Original Taco flavor Doritos. Here is the email I sent:


Hello,

I had long enjoyed the original Taco flavored Doritos since they were first introduced (in the seventies or eighties I believe) when I lived in Wisconsin. When I moved to Texas in 1999, I learned I could not find that flavor in stores here, and after contacting you I found that you did not distribute them to this part of the country. So for a while I just had my dad ship me a case from Wisconsin from time to time. But a while back he informed me he couldn't find them in stores any more, and it looks like you've discontinued the flavor entirely.

I've tried the Tacos At Midnight (don't like them) and Zesty Taco/Chipotle Ranch (they're okay) flavors, but they're not as good as the original Taco flavor. So I have two questions for you. 1) Is there any way for me to get that original Taco flavor chip from anywhere in the country and 2) if you have no intention of ever making them again, can I ask for the seasoning recipe? (Well, it can't hurt to ask.) Thank you for your time and attention.

Sincerely,

Blane Mather


Here is the response I received:


Hi Blane,

Thank you for taking the time to write to us.

We hear you! We're so glad to know one of our past products reached your "favorite snack" list! We understand each brand or flavor will end up being a front runner for someone. We wish we could carry them all. Regrettably, some snacks must be discontinued in order to make room for new ideas and the ever changing market demand.

We will gladly note your interest as a loyal fan of Original Taco Doritos. Unfortunately, the information you requested is considered confidential and we're not allowed to the share it outside the company. We appreciate the comments you shared with us and hope you will turn to our other Frito-Lay snacks to find a new favorite.


Best regards,

Natalia
Frito-Lay Consumer Affairs



Well, there are other Frito-Lay products that I like, although none are as good as those Taco Flavor Doritos that I will miss so. But that is the nicest, most courteous rejection I've received in a while, so I guess I will still buy Frito-Lay chips from time to time.

But that's not going to stop me from searching the internet for that seasoning recipe.

I already figured out how to make Postum (another favorite discontinued product) at home! LOL!