There’s nothing quite like sitting down on the couch with a bag of potato chips and binge-watching your favorite TV show. But with so many options available on the market, it’s tough to know which ones are actually good for you. Fear not, potato chip fans – I’ve done the digging for you. After extensive research and taste-testing, I’ve determined the healthiest potato chips out there.
First up on the list are Popchips. Made with just a handful of all-natural ingredients, these chips are not only delicious but also low in calories and saturated fat. They come in a variety of flavors, including sea salt, barbeque, and sour cream and onion, so there’s something for everyone. Plus, they’re gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Next, we have Terra vegetable chips. These colorful chips are made from a blend of sweet potatoes, batata, parsnips, taro root, and yuca, giving them a unique flavor and texture. They’re also cooked in a blend of canola, sunflower, and/or safflower oil, which is lower in saturated fat than other oils. Plus, they’re a good source of fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. So, next time you’re looking for a snack, give Terra chips a try and feel good about your choice.
Nutritional value of potatoes
Potatoes are one of the most popular vegetables consumed worldwide, and they are also one of the most versatile. They can be boiled, baked, mashed, roasted, fried, and turned into chips. Potatoes are a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals such as potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, and magnesium. They also provide dietary fiber and energy in the form of complex carbohydrates.
- Potassium: One medium-sized potato with skin contains around 950mg of potassium, which is almost 20% of the daily recommended value for adults. This mineral helps regulate blood pressure and supports muscle and nerve function.
- Vitamin C: A medium-sized potato with skin provides around 30% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C. This antioxidant vitamin helps protect cells from damage, boosts the immune system, and aids in collagen production for healthy skin.
- Fiber: A medium-sized potato with skin contains around 2 grams of dietary fiber, which is vital for healthy digestion and bowel movements. Fiber also helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes satiety, which may aid in weight management.
Aside from these essential nutrients, potatoes are also a low-fat and low-calorie option when boiled or baked without added fats. However, when potatoes are deep-fried and turned into chips, they can become high in fat, calories, and sodium depending on the preparation method and seasoning.
To summarize, potatoes can provide essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber in a low-fat and low-calorie form. When choosing potato chips, it is best to look for ones that are baked or air-popped and have no added salt or preservatives. Always read the nutrition label, and enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
| Vitamin/Mineral | Amount per medium-sized potato with skin | % daily recommended value for adults* |
|---|---|---|
| Potassium | 950mg | 20% |
| Vitamin C | 30% | 30% |
| Vitamin B6 | 10% | 10% |
| Iron | 6% | 6% |
| Magnesium | 6% | 6% |
*Percent daily values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Types of potato chip flavors
Potato chips come in a variety of flavors. Some of the most popular options are salted, barbecue, and sour cream and onion. Other flavors that are gaining in popularity include sea salt and vinegar, sweet potato, and jalapeno.
- Salted: Salted chips are a classic option that have been around for decades. They are made with just a few simple ingredients, including potatoes, oil, and salt. While they may not be the most exciting flavor, they are a timeless option that many people love.
- Barbecue: Barbecue chips have a sweet and smoky flavor that is popular with many chip enthusiasts. They are typically made with a blend of spices, including paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder, along with a sweetener, such as sugar or honey.
- Sour cream and onion: Sour cream and onion chips have a creamy and tangy flavor that is achieved with a seasoning blend that usually includes buttermilk powder, onion powder, and garlic powder.
While these classic potato chip flavors are delicious, they are not always the healthiest option. Many of these flavors are high in calories, sodium, and unhealthy fats. If you are looking for a healthier option, consider choosing chips that are made with whole grains or vegetables, such as sweet potatoes or kale. These options may not be as widely available as traditional potato chips, but they can be a great way to satisfy your craving for something crunchy and flavorful while also getting some extra nutrients.
| Flavor | Calories per serving (1 oz.) | Sodium per serving (1 oz.) | Fat per serving (1 oz.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salted | 160 | 170mg | 10g |
| Barbecue | 150 | 230mg | 9g |
| Sour cream and onion | 160 | 270mg | 10g |
| Sweet potato | 140 | 170mg | 7g |
| Kale | 130 | 200mg | 6g |
In conclusion, there are many different types of potato chip flavors to choose from, each with its own unique taste and nutritional profile. While classic flavors like salted, barbecue, and sour cream and onion are popular, they may not always be the healthiest option. If you are looking for a healthier alternative, consider trying chips made from whole grains or vegetables instead.
Comparison of different brands of potato chips
When it comes to choosing a brand of potato chips, many factors come into play, including taste, texture, and price. However, one crucial factor that should not be overlooked is the nutritional value of the chips. In this section, we’ll compare some of the most popular brands of potato chips and see which ones come out on top in terms of health benefits.
- Lays: One of the most well-known brands, Lays offers a wide variety of flavors, including classic, barbecue, and sour cream and onion. However, their chips are loaded with saturated fats and sodium, making them a less-than-ideal choice for health-conscious consumers.
- Pringles: While Pringles are often considered a healthier option due to their low saturated fat content, they still contain high levels of sodium and artificial flavors. In addition, their unique shape and texture make it easy to overeat, which can lead to consuming more calories than intended.
- Kettle Brand: Kettle Brand potato chips are often lauded as a healthier option due to their use of all-natural ingredients and reduced saturated fat and sodium content. They also offer a wide variety of flavors, including sea salt, barbecue, and salt and vinegar.
While Kettle Brand may be one of the best options out there for health-conscious consumers, it’s essential to keep in mind that potato chips are still a processed food and should be consumed in moderation. It’s also worth considering alternatives such as vegetable chips or baked potato chips, which can provide a similar crunch with fewer calories and less fat.
For a more in-depth comparison of different potato chip brands, check out the table below:
| Brand | Serving Size | Calories | Saturated Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lays | 1 oz (15 chips) | 160 | 1.5 | 170 |
| Pringles | 1 oz (15 chips) | 150 | 2 | 150 |
| Kettle Brand | 1 oz (13 chips) | 140 | 1 | 135 |
As you can see from the table, Kettle Brand chips come out on top in terms of calories, saturated fat, and sodium content. However, it’s important to remember that even the healthiest potato chip is still a processed snack food and should be consumed in moderation.
Homemade potato chip recipes
If you want to indulge in a healthier version of potato chips, why not try making them at home? This way, you can control the ingredients that go into them and make sure that they are using healthy cooking methods.
- Baked potato chips: Slice potatoes thinly using a mandolin slicer, brush slices with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake in oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
- Kale chips: Remove kale leaves from stems and tear into bite-sized pieces. Toss with olive oil, salt, and any desired seasonings. Bake in oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes or until crispy.
- Carrot chips: Slice carrots thinly using a mandolin slicer, brush slices with avocado oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika. Bake in oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
Experiment with different seasoning blends and vegetable options to find your perfect chip recipe.
| Ingredients | Directions |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | Thinly slice potatoes using a mandolin slicer |
| Olive oil | Brush potato slices with olive oil |
| Sea salt | Sprinkle slices with sea salt |
| Avocado oil | Brush carrot slices with avocado oil |
| Smoked paprika | Sprinkle carrot slices with smoked paprika |
Enjoy your homemade potato chips as a healthier snack option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Impact of Potato Chips on Heart Health
If you are a potato chip lover, you must have wondered about the health impacts your favorite snack leaves on your body, particularly on the heart. While crispy potato chips have a compelling taste and texture, they are, unfortunately, not the best option for a healthy heart.
- Potatoes used for making chips are usually high in starch and low in nutrients, which lead to obesity and high blood pressure. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, people who ate chips at least once a day had a higher risk of gaining extra weight and developing Type 2 diabetes, which eventually lead to cardiovascular disease.
- The high sodium content of potato chips can have severe effects on the heart’s health. A typical packet of chips contains around 170 milligrams of sodium, which adds up to 7% of an adult’s daily recommended intake. A high intake of sodium can increase blood pressure and cause hypertension, which is the leading cause of heart disease among adults worldwide.
- The use of unhealthy oils in processing potato chips can have adverse effects on the heart. Most chips sold in the market are fried in unhealthy oils and have high amounts of trans fats and saturated fats. A higher intake of trans fats can lead to the accumulation of cholesterol in the arteries, eventually leading to heart attacks and stroke.
Therefore, if you want to keep your heart healthy, it is best to avoid or limit the intake of potato chips. Instead, you can opt for healthier alternatives such as baked sweet potato chips, kale chips, or low-sodium popcorn. You can also try making your own chips at home using olive oil or avocado oil and seasoning them with healthy herbs and spices.
However, if you can’t resist the temptation of crispy and salty potato chips occasionally, make sure to check the nutrition labels and choose the ones with lower sodium, trans fat, and saturated fat content. It is also essential to consume potato chips in moderation and incorporate a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight.
| Brand Name | Calories/Serving | Sodium/Serving | Fat/Serving | Trans Fat/Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lay’s Original | 160 | 170 mg | 10 g | 0 g |
| Ruffles Original | 160 | 160 mg | 10 g | 0 g |
| Kettle Brand Sea Salt | 140 | 150 mg | 7 g | 0 g |
| Popchips Sea Salt | 120 | 240 mg | 4.5 g | 0 g |
As shown in the table above, some brands offer relatively healthier potato chips with lower sodium and fat content. However, it is crucial to note that even these options are still considered an unhealthy snack choice, and moderation should be applied when consuming them.
Gluten-free potato chips
For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, finding snacks that are gluten-free can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are many delicious gluten-free potato chip options to choose from. These chips are made without wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients. Here are some of the healthiest gluten-free potato chips on the market:
- Jackson’s Honest Sea Salt Purple Potato Chips – Made with coconut oil and purple potatoes, these chips are high in potassium, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Boulder Canyon Avocado Oil Canyon Cut Chips – These chips are cooked in avocado oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants.
- Lundberg Family Farms Rice Chips – Made with organic brown rice, these chips are gluten-free and have a nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.
But which gluten-free potato chips are the healthiest? Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for each of these brands:
| Brand | Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) | Total Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jackson’s Honest Sea Salt Purple Potato Chips | 1 oz (28 g) | 150 | 9 | 210 | 14 | 2 |
| Boulder Canyon Avocado Oil Canyon Cut Chips | 1 oz (28 g) | 140 | 7 | 180 | 18 | 2 |
| Lundberg Family Farms Rice Chips | 18 chips (28 g) | 120 | 4.5 | 100 | 19 | 2 |
When it comes to calories and fat content, all three brands are fairly similar. However, Jackson’s Honest Sea Salt Purple Potato Chips have a higher sodium content than the other two, so if you’re watching your sodium intake, you may want to choose one of the other options. Lundberg Family Farms Rice Chips have the lowest calorie and fat content of the three brands, making them a great choice if you’re trying to watch your calorie intake.
Low sodium options for potato chips
For people who want to be mindful of their sodium intake, potato chips can be a tricky snack choice. The average serving of potato chips contains around 170mg of sodium, which is about 7% of the recommended daily intake for an adult. Fortunately, there are some low sodium options available for those who still want to enjoy this classic snack.
- Bare Snacks Sea Salt Baked Chips: These chips are a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. They are gluten-free, non-GMO, and contain only three ingredients: potatoes, oil, and sea salt. They have just 70mg of sodium per serving, which is less than half of what you would find in a typical serving of potato chips.
- Popchips Sea Salt Potato Chips: Popchips use a unique production process that involves heating and pressure to create a crispy texture without frying. Their sea salt flavor contains just 80mg of sodium per serving, making them a great choice for people who want to enjoy a familiar taste with less salt.
- Ruffles Oven Baked Original Potato Chips: If you prefer the texture of a thicker, ridge-cut chip, Ruffles has an oven-baked option that contains just 95mg of sodium per serving. They are also lower in fat and calories compared to the brand’s original fried version.
It’s important to note that even with these low sodium options, potato chips should still be enjoyed in moderation as they are a high-calorie snack and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. However, choosing a low sodium option can be a helpful step in reducing overall sodium intake and promoting a healthier lifestyle.
7 FAQs on Which Potato Chips are the Healthiest
Q: Are plain potato chips the healthiest option?
A: Plain potato chips without any added flavors or seasonings are a better choice compared to flavored ones. However, they are still high in calories and sodium.
Q: Are baked potato chips healthier than fried?
A: Yes, baked potato chips are a healthier option than fried ones because they contain less fat.
Q: Are organic potato chips healthier?
A: Organic potato chips may be a healthier option because they are made with potatoes that are grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
Q: How can I reduce the sodium content in potato chips?
A: Look for potato chips labeled as low-sodium or reduced-sodium. Alternatively, you can choose to make your own potato chips at home and control the amount of salt you add.
Q: Can vegetable chips be a healthy snack option?
A: Yes, vegetable chips can be a healthier option compared to potato chips because they are made with a variety of vegetables and contain less fat. However, it’s always important to check the nutrition label before purchasing.
Q: Are kettle-cooked chips healthier than regular chips?
A: Kettle-cooked chips may be a healthier option because they are cooked at a lower temperature and contain less fat. However, they may contain more calories than regular chips.
Q: Are there any potato chip brands that are specifically marketed as healthy?
A: Yes, there are some potato chip brands that offer healthier options, such as Terra Chips and Bare Snacks. However, it’s still important to check the nutrition label and ingredients list before purchasing.
Thanks for Reading
Now that you know more about which potato chips are the healthiest, you can make informed decisions when it comes to choosing a snack. Remember to consume potato chips in moderation and opt for healthier alternatives whenever possible. Don’t forget to visit us again for more health-related articles!