Behind this family’s potato chip company lies a touching story that many may not know. Meet the Johnsons, who, like many parents, were on a quest to provide their family with delicious yet healthy food options. However, their journey took a unique turn due to their son, Max’s medical condition, which necessitated a diet rich in good fats and low in processed ingredients. This was the inspiration for their homemade potato chips.
The Johnsons initially made these chips in their kitchen, but after a memorable appearance on Shark Tank, they’re set to hit store shelves soon. Watching their episode not only sparked intense cravings for chips but also piqued our curiosity about their family’s mission. They launched Max’s Crunch about five years ago after friends encouraged them to share their culinary creation with others. In a market overflowing with snack options, they aimed to stand out by using non-GMO potatoes, sea salt, and coconut oil.
Max’s Health Journey
The push to adopt this healthier lifestyle stemmed from Max’s battle with Aicardi–Goutières syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the brain. Diagnosed at 14, Max faced severe challenges, including deteriorating motor skills and difficulties with basic functions like speaking and eating. At one point, his health took a critical turn with pancreatitis, leaving his doctors worried for his survival.
In a desperate bid to help Max, the Johnsons turned to a cookbook emphasizing nutrient-dense, minimally processed foods. They embraced healthy fats such as coconut oil and cod liver oil. Miraculously, after a few weeks on this new regimen, Max began to show signs of improvement. Megan Johnson shared, “There are two major misconceptions about fats: that you should minimize fat intake and that polyunsaturated vegetable oils are the best option. From our experience, both are incorrect.”
A Family’s Transformation
Inspired by Max’s progress, the entire family, including their three other kids, transitioned to a ketogenic-friendly diet. With no healthy snack options available, they began frying their potato chips in coconut oil, serving them at gatherings where they quickly became a hit. “People love snacking on chips but often feel guilty about it,” Megan noted. “[Our chips] offer a convenient way to incorporate healthy fats into your diet.”
Though initially hesitant about selling their chips, the Johnsons realized that many families likely sought snacks that were both tasty and nutritious. They aimed to bridge the gap between flavor and health, something that’s often hard to find. Today, Max’s Crunch chips are available nationwide, including at various Whole Foods locations. The company offers a range of flavored potato chips and tortilla chips, all made with coconut oil and minimal processing.
Giving Back
Additionally, they sell Charitable Threads, featuring hats, shirts, and socks branded with the Max’s Crunch logo. Proceeds from these items and the chips support the Max’s Crunch Charitable Foundation, dedicated to funding research for rare childhood diseases. Tragically, Max passed away unexpectedly on August 13, 2017, just after filming for Shark Tank. His legacy lives on through the company.
Explore More
If you’re curious about enhancing your journey, check out our other posts like this one on at-home insemination kits or learn more about boosting your fertility with supplements. You can also find valuable information on fertility insurance options, which is a great resource if you’re considering starting a family.
Conclusion
In summary, the Johnson family turned their struggles into a thriving business, creating healthy snacks that honor their son’s legacy while helping other families find better food choices.
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