Nando's launches controversial face cream with garlic and vinegar

In a surprising move from the food industry, Nando's, the renowned restaurant chain famous for its peri-peri chicken, has introduced a new face cream product called Extra Creamy Face Cream. This unusual product creation has left fans and consumers puzzled, particularly given its peculiar ingredients, which include black pepper, apple cider vinegar, oregano, and notably, garlic. The scent described by users has raised eyebrows, with reports calling it 'sulphuric.' It appears this debut has been in the works for some time, probably stemming from an attempt by the brand to branch out beyond food and into the beauty industry. While brand extensions are common in corporate strategies, not every attempt resonates well with the customer base. Critics have questioned the necessity of such a facial skincare product from a fast-food chain, arguing that the culinary brand may not possess the expertise typically associated with beauty and skincare. Many consumers feel that there is a growing trend of food brands venturing into unrelated merchandise, which risks diluting their identity and straying far from their core areas of competence. The excitement, or perhaps discomfort, this product has triggered showcases a broader questioning of consumer choices and the branding of food-related items in beauty. As more businesses look to expand their portfolios, both established and emerging brands are reassessing the boundaries that define their offerings to sustain market presence. The move could also reflect the increasingly blurred lines between cooking and skincare, prompting discussions about the ingredients we use across different domains. Ultimately, as more unconventional product launches surface, stakeholders in both the food and beauty industries must remain aware of consumer sentiments. The emergence of items like Extra Creamy Face Cream highlights the challenges involved in brand extension and the importance of understanding audience expectations. Unless Nando’s and similar companies can find a way to connect their culinary expertise and consumer needs in the beauty space, they risk alienating loyal customers who may feel prioritized for profit over product integrity.