From a simple pretzel stick to every child’s favorite snack.
Development commenced at the end of the 1950’s based on the idea of a stick-shaped snack with a texture similar to pretzels. Four years later - after a series to trials-and-errors and recipe adjustments - the first generation of Pretz with a salty, savory taste was introduced into the Japanese marketplace for 30 JPY (0.27 USD). Initial sales, however, were sluggish - probably because neither TV commercials nor the selected sales outlets matched the type of customers interested in buying such a product. As a result, the focus shifted to offering a sweet version of Pretz that even children would enjoy.
Upon its release in 1963, “Butter Pretz” was an immediate hit. In 1969 “Salad Pretz” was introduced, followed by “Roasted Pretz” in 1973 - crunchy roasted pretzel sticks with a sweet seasoning - became the next item in this product series. With the introduction each new product, the number of Pretz fans has increased.
What’s the secret behind Pretz’s addictiveness?
In response to changing taste preferences over the years, Glico has constantly striven to do what it takes to update its products. Salad Pretz is the most basic flavor of the series. For this flavor, a significant part of the challenge has been deciding what to change and what not to change. It is considered that the secret behind the deliciousness and popularity of Salad Pretz is the aroma that results from the yeast fermentation of the dough interacting with the properties and quality of the raw materials. If you pay close a ttention, you can smell the rich flavor created through yeast fermentation. On the other hand, when changing the conditions of yeast fermentation, it is important to apply the technology to adjust the texture of the product. Pretz has been evolving but at the same time has also been providing the same unique texture ever since its first appearance.
New ideas, new flavors.
In 2017, a fermented liquid was used to enhance the rich body and fruity aroma of Salad Pretz. Leading up to this was a focus on fermentation as part of basic research. While investigating short-time fermentation with various conditions of yeast, salt and sugar, long-time fermentation was also considered. Doing so, the ideal fermented materials which match the Salad Pretz flavor were discovered. The Pretz lineup consists of various flavors - some even varying depending on the area they are sold. Each is made from recipes optimized not only for flavor, but also for materials, thickness, and texture. Ongoing research makes it possible to produce various versions of Pretz. Glico’s basic research and manufacturing technology create original products that lead to the next.
