COMBOS

Introduction

COMBOS was founded in 1983 by the visionary duo of Alan and Eddie Decker, who aimed to create a unique snack that combined the crunch of pretzel or cracker with a savory filling. Their inspiration stemmed from a desire to bring together the beloved flavors of traditional snacks in an innovative way. Operating under the umbrella of Mars, Inc., COMBOS has established itself as a beloved brand that resonates with consumers looking for a convenient yet tasty snack option.

The philosophy behind COMBOS centers on crafting delicious snacks that cater to a variety of taste preferences while maintaining a focus on quality. The brand believes in creating enjoyable experiences through snacks that can be shared among friends or savored alone. This commitment to flavor and texture, along with a dedication to using high-quality ingredients, sets COMBOS apart in the highly competitive snack market, appealing to both casual snackers and those seeking a more satisfying munch.

What makes COMBOS special is not just its innovative filling and crunch but the diversity of flavors offered. From cheese-filled pretzel bites to cracker varieties, COMBOS has something for everyone. The brand's playful approach to snacking encourages consumers to indulge their cravings while enjoying a burst of flavor, making them a popular choice for road trips, movie nights, or simply as a midday treat.

Signature Products

COMBOS offers a range of products that exemplify the brand's dedication to flavor and crunchy satisfaction.

• Cheddar Cheese Pretzel : A pretzel shell filled with a rich cheddar cheese filling, providing a satisfying crunch and cheesy goodness.
• Pepperoni Pizza Crackers : Savory crackers filled with a delicious pepperoni pizza flavor, delivering an authentic taste of pizza in a crunchy bite.
• Buffalo Blue Cheese Pretzel : A spicy and tangy flavor combination of buffalo sauce and creamy blue cheese, perfect for those who enjoy a kick in their snacks.
• Honey Mustard & Onion Pretzel : A sweet and tangy blend of honey mustard and onion filling in a pretzel shell, offering a unique snacking experience.

Materials and Ingredients Used by COMBOS

• Corn : Corn is a versatile grain that serves as a primary ingredient for various snacks. In COMBOS, corn is likely used for its crunchy texture and flavor, contributing to the overall eating experience. The choice of corn aligns with the brand's intention to offer a satisfying snack.
• Palm Oil : Palm oil is a common vegetable oil used in food products for its stability and ability to enhance flavor. In COMBOS, it helps maintain the texture and moisture of the ingredients, ensuring a palatable snack. The utilization of palm oil supports the brand's goals of achieving a consistent product quality.
• Salt : Salt is a fundamental ingredient in food production, primarily for seasoning and flavor enhancement. COMBOS uses salt to elevate the savory taste of the snack, making it more appealing to consumers. This choice reflects the brand's focus on flavor and enjoyment.
• Wheat Flour : Wheat flour is a key ingredient in many snack foods, providing structure and texture. In COMBOS, wheat flour contributes to the crispy outer layer of the snacks, creating a satisfying crunch. This ingredient choice helps the brand achieve the desired mouthfeel.
• Tomato : Tomato adds a lively flavor profile and a hint of acidity to the product. COMBOS incorporates tomato to enhance the overall taste experience, making the snack more interesting and flavorful. This ingredient choice aligns with the brand's commitment to delicious flavors.
• Sugar : Sugar serves as a sweetener that can balance salty flavors and enhance overall taste. In COMBOS, the inclusion of sugar adds a subtle sweetness that complements the other ingredients, enriching the snacking experience. This reflects the brand's aim for a harmonious flavor blend.
• Onion : Onion is a flavorful ingredient that provides a rich, savory profile. COMBOS utilizes onion to add depth to the overall taste of the snack, enhancing its savory appeal. This choice is in line with the brand's goal of delivering a savory and satisfying snack.
• Whey : Whey is a protein-rich ingredient derived from milk, often used for its nutritional benefits and flavor enhancement. In COMBOS, whey contributes to the creamy texture and improves the overall nutrient profile of the snack. This inclusion supports the brand's efforts to create a more balanced snack option.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying From COMBOS

There are several issues related to the supply chain of COMBOS that need to be taken into consideration for sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

The cultivation of corn, palm oil, and whey production notably contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Industrial-scale corn farming often relies heavily on synthetic fertilizers, which produce nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas. As per research, agriculture accounts for about 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with corn being a significant contributor. Similarly, palm oil plantations, especially those in deforested areas, release significant amounts of carbon dioxide when land is cleared by burning. Whey production, as a byproduct of dairy, involves dairy cattle which emit methane, adding to the environmental footprint.

Deforestation:

The expansion of palm oil and sugarcane plantations often leads to deforestation and habitat destruction. For instance, palm oil’s association with deforestation is well-documented, with vast swathes of tropical forests, particularly in Southeast Asia, being cleared for plantations. This not only leads to loss of biodiversity but also contributes to the displacement of indigenous communities and wildlife. The conversion of forest to farmland for sugar cultivation also follows a similar trend, significantly impacting climates and ecosystems.

Soil Degradation:

Corn and sugar cultivation contribute to soil degradation through monoculture practices and over-reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This kind of agriculture depletes soil nutrients, reduces fertility, and leads to soil erosion. Continuous corn production without crop rotation exacerbates soil erosion, leaving land less productive over time. Additionally, wheat cultivation can lead to soil degradation if sustainable practices like crop rotation and reduced tillage are not followed.

Water Usage:

Tomatoes, onions, and whey production demand significant water resources, which is a considerable issue in water-scarce areas. Traditional irrigation methods in tomato cultivation are inefficient, often leading to water wastage. According to studies, agriculture accounts for 70% of global freshwater usage, with tomatoes in warmer climates requiring up to 13 gallons of water to produce a pound. Similarly, onions and dairy-related whey production increase water demands significantly, stressing local water supplies.

Pesticide Use:

The use of pesticides in the cultivation of corn, wheat, tomatoes, and onions impacts environmental and human health. Pesticides can contaminate water sources, degrade soil health, and harm non-target organisms, including beneficial insects and soil microlife. Affected water bodies can suffer from algal blooms, which deplete oxygen and harm aquatic life. Consumers are also exposed to residues through dietary intake, with potential long-term health effects yet to be fully understood.

Labor Issues:

The production of palm oil and sugar is often linked to labor issues and human rights concerns. Workers on plantations and farms may face harsh working conditions, low wages, and insufficient labor rights protection. Regions heavily involved in such agriculture, like Southeast Asia for palm oil and Latin America for sugar, have seen reports of child labor and exploitation, prompting the need for stronger labor standards and enforcement in agricultural supply chains.

These sustainability issues, ranging from environmental impact to human rights concerns, form critical points of consideration in the supply chain management for brands utilizing these ingredients. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort towards sustainable agricultural practices, ethical labor practices, and climate-conscious supply chain management.