Richard Montañez Sues PepsiCo Over Flamin' Hot Cheetos Origin Dispute

Montañez claims he invented the snack, while PepsiCo denies his involvement, leading to allegations of defamation and discrimination.

Montañez alleges he created Flamin' Hot Cheetos in the 1980s while working as a janitor at Frito-Lay.
PepsiCo and Frito-Lay assert that internal records do not support Montañez's claims.
A 2021 Los Angeles Times article challenged Montañez's account, citing other employees' testimonies.
Montañez's lawsuit seeks damages for defamation, racial discrimination, and fraud.
The dispute has impacted Montañez's career, leading to canceled speaking engagements and book deals.