Potato Chips

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

In our analysis, Potato Chips scores Ultra-Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Modified Proteins (Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein): Extensive modification indicates UPF.
• Artificial Colors (Yellow 6, Red 40, Blue 1): Synthetic colors are definitive UPF markers.
• Natural Flavors (Monosodium Glutamate): Despite being natural, these are highly processed extracts.
• Other Additives (Sodium Diacetate): Miscellaneous additives generally indicate processing.

Within Chips & Crisps, this product is more processed than about 85% of the 10,682 products we've analyzed.

Processing classification reflects ingredient and additive analysis, not a judgment of any product's safety, quality, or healthfulness.

What These Ingredients Tell Us

We group Potato Chips' ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

Vegetable OilsProcessing indicator

In this product: Palm Olein Oil, Vegetable Oil.

Natural oils are minimally processed, hydrogenated oils indicate UPF.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Maltodextrin.

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

Salt & SodiumProcessing indicator

In this product: Iodized Salt.

Basic preservative, but high amounts indicate processing.

Food AcidsProcessing indicator

In this product: Citric Acid.

Common in both traditional and industrial foods.

Anti-Caking AgentsProcessing indicator

In this product: Spices (Black Pepper, Clove, Allspice)Silicon Dioxide.

Common in powdered processed foods.

Food Bases & AlkalisProcessing indicator

In this product: Sodium Bicarbonate.

Common in baking, excessive use indicates processing.