Potato Chip - Health Concerns

Health Concerns

Potato chips were originally fried and seasoned without concern for trans fats, sodium, sugar, or other nutrient levels. As nutritional intake guidelines were created in various countries and the nutrition facts label became commonplace, consumers, advocacy groups, and health organizations have focused on the nutritional value of junk foods, including potato chips.

A recent long term study associates potato chip consumption as the most important contributor to weight change, before potatoes and soft drinks.

Additionally, the starch in potato chips is known to cause tooth erosion.

Some potato chip companies have responded to the criticism, both informal and legal, by investing in research and development to modify existing recipes and create health-conscious products. Kettle Foods was founded in 1978 and currently sells only trans fat-free products, including potato chips. Pepsico research shows that approximately 80% of salt on chips is not sensed by the tongue before being swallowed. Frito-Lay spent $414 million in 2009 on product development, including development of salt crystals that would reduce the salt content of Lay's potato chips without adversely affecting flavor.

A big concern about the nutrition of potato chips is that because they are often made with salt, they may contain substantial levels of sodium. However, it has been claimed that potato chips may actually contain less sodium/salt than the equivalent weight in corn flakes. The excessive consumption of potato chips may cause obesity which can produce a rise in blood pressure. It has been pointed out that potato chips contain less salt than Golden Graham cereals. It should also be noted potato chips that may contain significant levels of potassium.