Hot Cheetos lawsuit

Richard Montañez, a former janitor turned executive at PepsiCo, is suing the company for fraud, defamation, and racial discrimination after they denied his claim of inventing Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. The lawsuit, filed in California Superior Court, alleges that PepsiCo initially supported Montañez's story but later sided with former employees who dispute his role in creating the popular snack. Montañez contends that the company's actions have harmed his career as a motivational speaker and author, leading to lost engagements and a canceled documentary. He argues that the company's statements have damaged his reputation and relationship with the Hispanic community. PepsiCo has refrained from commenting on the lawsuit, while a previous investigation by the Los Angeles Times found inconsistencies in Montañez's claims, stating there was no record of his involvement in the product's test market. Montañez is seeking damages, restitution, and a jury trial to restore his legacy.