You might think all tortilla chips are created equal, but some brands are sneaking in unhealthy ingredients that can sabotage your snacking experience. From artificial colors to preservatives like MSG and TBHQ, these additives have been linked to a range of potential health risks. To help you navigate the tortilla chip aisle, we’ve rounded up the brands to avoid and the reasons why. Get ready to crunch on this eye-opening information!
1. Fieras Chili & Lime Spicy Corn Rolled Tortilla Chips
These rolled tortilla chips might look tempting with their bold chili and lime flavors, but a closer look at the ingredients reveals some concerning additives. Fieras Chili & Lime chips contain MSG, artificial colors, and maltodextrin, which have been associated with potential health risks like headaches, allergic reactions, and digestive issues.
MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is a flavor enhancer that can cause symptoms like headaches, nausea, and chest pain in some people. Artificial colors, such as the Yellow 6 and Red 40 found in these chips, have been linked to hyperactivity in children and may even pose a cancer risk. Maltodextrin, a starchy additive, can cause blood sugar spikes and digestive discomfort.
While enjoying a handful of these chips occasionally isn’t likely to cause serious harm, regularly snacking on them could lead to unwanted health consequences. If you’re craving a spicy kick, opt for tortilla chips seasoned with natural spices and free from artificial additives.
2. Doritos Cool Ranch Flavored Tortilla Chips
Doritos Cool Ranch chips might be a party staple, but they’re far from a healthy choice. These flavored tortilla chips are loaded with artificial ingredients like MSG, maltodextrin, and dextrose, as well as synthetic colors like Red 40 and Blue 1.
In addition to the potential risks associated with MSG and artificial colors, the high sodium content in these chips can contribute to high blood pressure and water retention. The added sugars from maltodextrin and dextrose provide empty calories without any nutritional value.
If you can’t resist the cool ranch flavor, try making your own healthier version at home using plain tortilla chips and a blend of herbs and spices like parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!
3. Tostitos Hint of Guacamole Flavored Tortilla Chips
Don’t let the word “guacamole” fool you – these flavored tortilla chips are far from a nutritious choice. Tostitos Hint of Guacamole chips contain artificial colors and maltodextrin, which can negate any potential health benefits from the small amount of avocado used for flavoring.
The artificial colors, like Yellow 5 and Blue 1, have been associated with allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children. Maltodextrin, a starchy additive, can cause rapid blood sugar spikes and has been linked to digestive issues like bloating and gas.
For a healthier guacamole fix, mash up some fresh avocado and serve it with plain, whole-grain tortilla chips. You’ll get the same creamy, satisfying flavor without the unwanted additives.
4. Great Value Nacho Cheese Tortilla Chips
Don’t be fooled by the “Great Value” name – these nacho cheese tortilla chips are anything but a great value for your health. They contain a trifecta of concerning ingredients: artificial colors, maltodextrin, and MSG.
The artificial colors, like Yellow 6 and Yellow 5, have been linked to potential health risks like allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children. Maltodextrin, a starchy additive, can spike blood sugar levels and cause digestive discomfort. MSG, a flavor enhancer, can trigger symptoms like headaches and nausea in some people.
Instead of reaching for these artificially flavored chips, try melting some real cheddar cheese over plain tortilla chips for a more wholesome and satisfying snack.
5. Meijer Nacho Cheese Tortilla Chips
Meijer Nacho Cheese Tortilla Chips might be a regional favorite, but they’re not doing any favors for your health. These chips are loaded with artificial ingredients like MSG, synthetic colors, and the emulsifier Polysorbate 80.
MSG can cause headaches, nausea, and other unpleasant symptoms in some individuals. The artificial colors, such as Yellow 6 and Red 40, have been associated with allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children. Polysorbate 80, an emulsifier used to improve texture, has been linked to gut inflammation and may disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract.
Skip these artificially enhanced chips and opt for plain tortilla chips paired with fresh, homemade salsa or guacamole for a more wholesome snacking experience.
6. Great Value Glacier Ranch Tortilla Chips
Great Value strikes again with their Glacier Ranch Tortilla Chips, which are far from a cool choice for your health. These chips are packed with artificial additives like MSG, dextrose, titanium dioxide, and synthetic colors.
MSG can trigger headaches and other unpleasant symptoms in some people, while dextrose, a simple sugar, provides empty calories without any nutritional value. Titanium dioxide, a whitening agent, has been linked to gut inflammation and may even be carcinogenic. The artificial colors, like Blue 1 and Red 40, have been associated with allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children.
Instead of falling for these artificially flavored chips, try seasoning plain tortilla chips with a blend of ranch-inspired spices like dried dill, garlic powder, and onion powder for a healthier twist on the classic flavor.
7. Tortiyahs! Guacamole Superior Dipping Chips
Don’t be fooled by the guacamole in the name – Tortiyahs! Guacamole Superior Dipping Chips are far from a superior choice for your health. These chips contain concerning additives like MSG, artificial colors, and maltodextrin.
MSG can cause unpleasant symptoms like headaches and nausea in some individuals, while artificial colors have been linked to allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children. Maltodextrin, a starchy additive, can spike blood sugar levels and has been associated with digestive issues like bloating and gas.
For a healthier guacamole fix, ditch these artificially flavored chips and opt for fresh avocado mashed with lime juice, cilantro, and diced tomatoes. Serve with plain, whole-grain tortilla chips for a satisfying and wholesome snack.
So there you have it – the tortilla chip brands to avoid if you want to steer clear of unhealthy additives and artificial ingredients. By opting for plain, whole-grain tortilla chips and pairing them with fresh, homemade dips, you can satisfy your snack cravings without compromising your health. Remember, when it comes to tortilla chips, sometimes less is more – less artificial junk, that is! Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a date with a bowl of salsa and some all-natural chips. Crunch on, my friends!
