Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

COLUMBIA (WACH) - Potato chip fans may have noticed a few new flavors on the shelves.

Lays released three consumer-inspired potato chip flavors this week: Chicken & Waffles, Cheesy Garlic Bread and Sriracha.

The flavors are finalists in the "Do Us A Flavor" campaign. The ideas for the flavors were submitted by a volunteer coordinator in Arizona, a part-time children's librarian in Wisconsin and a college student in Illinois, according to a Pepsico news release. The three finalist flavors were fully developed by Frito-Lay's culinary experts and brought to store shelves.

The unusual flavors will remain on shelves until May 4 and consumers are invited to vote each day for their favorite flavor via social media using the hashtag #SaveChickenWaffles, #SaveGarlicBread or #SaveSriracha, or via text message by texting "VOTE" to 24477 (CHIPS).

"It has been incredible to see the variety of flavor ideas that resulted from the millions of consumer submissions from all around the country," said Ram Krishnan, vice president of marketing, Frito-Lay North America. "Millions of Lay's fans showed tremendous passion and creativity for our brand, making it extremely difficult to narrow the submissions down to just three finalist flavors. But now the final decision is in America's hands – and we can't wait to see what they will decide to be the next great potato chip flavor." 

The contestants behind the flavors have the chance to win $1 million - or 1 percent of the flavor's net sales - if their flavor receives the most votes. The two runner-up finalists will each win $50,000 in prize money.

The WACH team hit the stores to give the salty treats a try.

The Cheesy Garlic Bread and Chicken & Waffles flavors were nearly sold out in one store we visited and completely out at a second store. The Sriracha flavor was not available at either store.

Pepsico says the winning flavor will stay on store shelves following the completion of the contest.

Lays is no stranger to releasing unique flavors; Tangy Carolina BBQ, Spicy Ketchup, Dill Pickle and BLT flavored potato chips are available in stores.

Which flavor are you most excited to try? Which flavor do you think will win? Leave us a comment below!