Frito-Lay Beer-Battered Onion Rings potato chips hit shelves

PLANO, Texas — Ruffles, PepsiCo's Frito-Lay division brand, is bringing the tailgate party right to the house with the introduction of Ruffles Max Beer-Battered Onion Rings flavored potato chips, the company announced today.

Onion Rings, the widely popular bar food, second only to the ubiquitous French Fry, according to CNN's "Eatocracy" food blog, has gained a notable following recently, especially among men.

"Guys live for those moments when they're hanging out together at a bar, diner or tailgate party trading epic stories and munching on their favorite snacks," explained Tony Matta, VP marketing of Frito-Lay North America. "Onion rings are one of those staple guy-get-together foods. We wanted to incorporate that flavor for guys to share for any impromptu gathering — just grab a bag off the shelf and throw a party with your crew."

The Ruffles brand is going all out for guys as the calendar shifts from the quiet of winter to the party atmosphere of spring. College basketball is at its apex. Spring Break trips are under way, and celebrations of St. Patty's Day are upon us. Ruffles MAX beer-battered onion ring-flavored potato chips offer a new snack experience.

Ruffles originally introduced onion-ring flavored potato chips in late 2011 in limited distribution, but Ruffles MAX beer-battered onion rings now fall under the brand's MAX line, which includes flavors inspired by real foods. The snack is available for a limited-time nationwide where Ruffles chips are sold.

Ruffles MAX beer-battered onion rings are offered in two sizes: a 2.5-oz. bag for a suggested retail price of $1.49; and an 8-oz. bag for a suggested retail price of $4.29.