Inside these posts: Chips

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Chip shortage making smart phones more scarce

The seemingly recession-proof smart phone is suffering from a side effect of the rough economy: Manufacturers simply can’t build enough of the gadgets because chip-makers that rolled back production last year are now scrambling to play catch-up.

The chip shortage means Apple Inc.’s rivals are having trouble making enough phones to compete with the iPhone, a problem expected to persist through the holidays. It’s also affecting wireless carriers, some of which are seeing delays in improving their networks, and it could even raise computer prices.

Lightly salted Fritos, Ruffles go nationwide

Frito-Lay announced Monday it will begin selling two lightly salted chips brands nationwide.

The announcement comes three months after Frito-Lay’s parent, PepsiCo Inc., pledged to reduce sodium in each serving of its key brands by one-fourth in five years. Fritos lightly salted corn chips and Ruffles lightly salted potato chips have been on sale in select markets since 2000.

Frito-Lay says the chips have at least 50 percent less sodium per one ounce serving than the original chips. On average, Americans consume 3,436 mg of sodium,  1,136 mg more than the FDA’s daily guideline.