iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Doritos and PepsiCo announced a space-themed snack called COOL RANCH Zero Gravity flavored tortilla chips for the Polaris Dawn mission. A prelaunch report said the minis were coated in oil to address chip dust in microgravity and that the crew was expected to taste them. That report does not confirm the tasting took place.
What were the “space Doritos”?
The product was marketed as COOL RANCH Zero Gravity flavored tortilla chips, a minis-format snack announced by Doritos and PepsiCo for a spaceflight activation. Futurism referred to them as Cool Ranch Gravity Doritos. The branding and mission association do not establish that this was a regular retail product: the announcement does not say whether consumers could buy the space-branded version.
These mission-specific minis should not be confused with ordinary Cool Ranch Doritos. The cited announcement describes the space-themed product, not a change to the standard retail chips.
Recommended Free Tools
Why were the chips coated in oil?
Futurism reported that the chips were coated in oil as a way to address tortilla-chip “dust” in space. The sources available for this story do not include an independent engineering assessment of the design or technical measurements of how much debris chips produce in microgravity, so the explanation should be understood as the reported rationale—not a demonstrated performance result.
#1 Best Overall
- Pack of 40 one ounce bags
- Doritos tortilla chips with classic nacho cheese flavor
- Made of whole corn
- Crunchy straight from the bag or after scooping up dip or salsa
- These much loved treats are fun to enjoy at lunch, as an after-school snack, or party refreshment
What did Polaris Dawn have to do with it?
The snack promotion was tied to Polaris Dawn, a private Crew Dragon mission led by Jared Isaacman with three crewmates. The mission was also notable for its planned private spacewalk.
When Futurism published its report on Aug. 20, 2024, it described the tasting as something the crew would do and gave Aug. 26 as a tentative launch date. Those were prelaunch statements. That article alone does not establish that the crew actually tasted the chips, and its schedule should not be read as current mission status.
Rank #2
- Includes 40 Single Serve Bags: Doritos Nacho Cheese, Doritos Cool Ranch
- Doritos isn’t just a chip. It’s fuel for disruption — our flavors ignite adventure and inspire action. With every crunch, we aim to redefine culture and support those who are boldly themselves.
- Single serve bags are perfect to bring bold flavor to your next work or school lunch
- Enjoy Doritos at lunch, as an after school snack, or party refreshment
What was announced about the sponsorship?
Futurism reported that $500,000 of sponsorship money would go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The cited material does not establish whether the donation was completed, so the figure is best described as a reported pledge or allocation rather than a confirmed payment.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
How PepsiCo described the promotion
In a statement reproduced by Futurism, PepsiCo Foods North America chief creative officer Chris Bellinger said: “The limitless possibilities of space inspired us to push the boundaries of what’s possible. This mission is a testament to our commitment to delivering bold experiences and flavors, even in the most unexpected places.” That is the company’s promotional framing, not an independent technical claim.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- Includes 10 (1oz) bags of Doritos Nacho Cheese flavored Tortilla Chips
- Nacho Cheese flavor on another level
- DORITOS isn’t just a chip. It’s fuel for disruption — our flavors ignite adventure and inspire action.
- With every crunch, we aim to redefine culture and support those who are boldly themselves.
- Are you ready? If so, crunch on.
Sources
- Doritos announcement via PR Newswire
- Futurism’s Aug. 20, 2024 report on the chips and promotion
- Futurism’s Jul. 29, 2024 prelaunch report on Polaris Dawn and its planned spacewalk
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
