Wendy’s famous chili is coming to grocery stores — for more than double the price in its restaurants.
The Ohio-based fast food chain announced Wednesday it is collaborating with packaged goods company Conagra Brands to sell canned versions of Wendy’s chili with beans across the US this spring.
The cans will retail for $4.49 — more than double the average cost of $2.09 for a small chili at Wendy’s locations, according to fastfoodmenuprices.com, which reports a large portion of chili typically sells for $2.79.
Wendy’s has served its chili since 1969, and it is one of the most recognizable items from the burger joint. Ingredients include beef, peppers, and beans that are simmered in a tomato-based sauce.
“Wendy’s Chili has been a beloved menu item since our beginnings in 1969,” Carl Loredo, global chief marketing officer for the Wendy’s Company, said in a statement.
“We’re thrilled about the partnership with Conagra Brands and to have the opportunity to bring our brand’s iconic chili flavor to even more fans. When the Wendy’s chili craving hits, you now have two delicious ways to get your fix — at retail stores or in our restaurants,” he added.
The chili stewed at the restaurants is made with leftover burger meat, but it’s not clear if the canned version will feature similar meat.
In a statement, Conagra promised the “all-natural beef” contains no artificial ingredients and undergoes minimal processing.
“We are thrilled to partner with Wendy’s and bring a fan-favorite to homes nationwide,” said Juliette van de Walle, prepared chili brand lead at Conagra Brands.
“We worked closely with Wendy’s culinary team to ensure we brought through the indulgent flavors and delicious ingredients of the Chili that has been a long-time staple on the Wendy’s menu.”
The Post has contacted Wendy’s for additional comment.
Some Twitter users roasted the chain upon hearing the news Wednesday.
“Already tastes like a mediocre canned chili?” one person slammed.
“Wendys sells the absolute worst chili ever made. Why would anyone buy it in a can?” a picky eater wondered.
“Gross.. good luck,” one quipped.
“They should shove a few burnt french fries in the cans just to make it authentic!” another sarcastically snipped.
“Gonna stock up on Gas-X now,” another shared.
Other Twitter users think it’s cool beans.
“Most important news of the year,” one supporter cheered.
“Yes, please!” another exclaimed.
Someone else added: “That’ll be one I’ll try for sure!!!”
In other Wendy’s news, the chain says it is offering free food until May 14 to help customers get through Mercury in retrograde.
[Written in collaboration with other media outlets with information from the following sources]
