Crisp giant Golden Wonder has been placed in administration.
The news, which puts more around 850 jobs at risk, could also lead to the loss of a significant customer for UK potato operators.
The firm, whose brands include Golden Wonder, Nik-Naks and Wheat Crunchies, has suffered falling sales and fierce competition in recent years.
The administrators, Kroll, said the manufacturer had made “significant” losses in 2005, on top of a £10.8 million loss in 2004.
Kroll said it hoped the firm could be rescued but warned that the company’s own-label operation in Corby would close.
Adrian Wolstenhome, a spokesman with Kroll, said he was hopeful that the entire business, or parts of the operation, could be sold on.
"Unfortunately, despite its well-known name and brands, Golden Wonder has suffered in recent years," he said. "We hope that the administration will provide further time to review the options available.”
