Former PepsiCo janitor turned executive Richard Montañez is suing the company for denying his claim that he invented Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. According to the Associated Press, Montañez’s lawsuit alleges that PepsiCo’s actions have significantly harmed his career. Initially supported by the company, Montañez’s story was celebrated, even leading to a movie about his invention.
However, the company later sided with former employees who disputed his claim, leading Montañez to seek damages for discrimination, fraud, and defamation. The lawsuit claims this shift in support has damaged his speaking career and other professional opportunities, including a canceled documentary about his life.
Montañez’s lawsuit details his journey from a janitor at PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay plant in Rancho Cucamonga, California, starting in 1977, to pitching the idea of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos to PepsiCo CEO Roger Enrico in 1991.
Coming from a background of Mexican immigrants and growing up in a migrant labor camp, Montañez was inspired to create a spicy version of Cheetos, reminiscent of the popular Mexican street food elote. After successfully creating the flavor, he presented it to Enrico, who approved the idea and initiated the development of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.
The lawsuit highlights Montañez’s rise within PepsiCo, where he was promoted multiple times and credited with developing additional spicy snacks like Flamin’ Hot Popcorn and Lime and Chili Fritos.
He became PepsiCo’s vice president of multicultural marketing and sales and was highly sought after for speaking engagements, leading to his retirement in 2019 to pursue motivational speaking full-time. His success story was the basis for the 2023 film ‘Flamin’ Hot’ produced by Devon Franklin.
PepsiCo’s support for Montañez shifted in 2021 following a Los Angeles Times article that questioned his role in creating Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. The article included claims from former employees who stated that they were already working on spicy snacks when Montañez made his pitch and that they came up with the name ‘Flamin’ Hot.’
PepsiCo did not outright deny Montañez’s story but claimed their statements were misconstrued, leading to confusion about his contributions. Despite this, the company acknowledged Montañez as an important part of their history and credited him for their success.
Montañez’s lawsuit calls for PepsiCo to clarify its position, as he feels their contradictory statements have damaged his reputation. The defamation claim centers on the alleged negative impact on his speaking engagements and potential opportunities, painting a picture of a once-celebrated figure now embroiled in a legal battle to restore his name and legacy.