Does Popeyes Have Corn on the Cob or Cornbread in 2024?

Popeyes is renowned for their fried chicken and signature sides, but the menu has gone through many changes over the years. In particular, cornbread and corn on the cob have been subject to much speculation among loyal customers. Here‘s a deep dive into the mysteries of cornbread and corn at Popeyes.

A Brief History of Sides at Popeyes

Popeyes first opened in 1972 in New Orleans, founded by entrepreneur Al Copeland. The initial menu focused around mild and spicy fried chicken, served with typical Southern sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits, and of course, cornbread.

Cornbread was a staple on the Popeyes menu for over 40 years. Generations of diners came to associate those warm cornbread muffins with the Popeyes experience. However, in 2019 Popeyes suddenly announced they would be replacing cornbread with black-eyed peas and rice.

Why the abrupt change after so many years? While Popeyes has not given an official explanation, food industry experts speculate it was a move to cut costs. Cornbread requires baking fresh on-site, whereas rice and beans can be made in large batches at a central supply facility. This saves on labor and allows for more consistent quality control across all restaurants.

Many customers were dismayed at the loss of a longtime menu staple. According to social media complaints and online reviews, the removal of cornbread was Popeyes‘ most controversial menu change ever.

Nutritional Profile of Cornbread vs. New Sides

Part of the customer dismay over the cornbread removal may stem from its superior nutrition compared to the new offerings.

A small Popeyes cornbread muffin contains:

• 380 calories
• 16g fat
• 50g carbs
• 9g protein

Whereas a serving of Popeyes black-eyed peas has:

• 230 calories
• 1g fat
• 46g carbs
• 10g protein

And a serving of Popeyes rice:

• 120 calories
• 0g fat
• 22g carbs
• 2g protein

So cornbread offered more fat, protein, and over double the calories compared to the new black-eyed pea side. Many customers seem to prefer the heartier nutrition profile of cornbread over rice and beans.

Availability of Corn on the Cob at Popeyes

Unlike cornbread, Popeyes does still offer corn on the cob seasonally during summer months. This aligns with peak corn production, which hits around mid-July each year according to USDA data.

The US produces over 14 billion pounds of sweet corn annually. Popeyes appears to take advantage of this bounty by offering fresh corn in-season when supply is high and costs are lower.

Corn on the cob likely requires more prep work like grilling, slathering with butter, and individually wrapping ears. Limiting it to a summer item reduces labor demands in Popeyes kitchens during slower winter months.

Customer Demand for Vegan Options

One benefit of ordering corn on the cob at Popeyes is the ability to request a vegan preparation without butter. This aligns with growing nationwide demand for vegan fast food.

According to a 2019 survey, over 280% more Americans are choosing vegan menu items compared to just three years prior. Popeyes offering customizable corn on the cob appeals to this expanding vegan demographic.

The Power of Seasonal and Limited-Time Menu Offerings

In my professional opinion as a marketer, the limited availability of Popeyes corn on the cob in summer months is a tactical business decision. Scarcity spurs demand – when customers know an item is only available for a short time, they are more likely to buy it. This generates excitement and social media buzz.

Rotating limited-time offers like seasonal sides also keeps the brand feeling fresh and new. Popeyes can gauge customer feedback on experimental items without committing to it full-time. Overall, the seasonal and limited-time menu approach seems to be working well for Popeyes‘ continued success.

So in summary – no, there is no cornbread anymore but you can still get fresh corn on the cob in summer. And expect more surprises and menu changes at Popeyes, it‘s all part of their strategy!