Fritos Barbecue Flavored Corn Chips

by Pepsico

Ultra-processed corn chips loaded with inflammatory seed oils, MSG, artificial additives, and multiple sources of added sugar. While corn is the base, the extensive chemical processing and flavor enhancement system creates a product that promotes inflammation and blood sugar spikes.

• Corn – safe · Whole corn provides carbohydrates and some nutrients, though conventional corn may contain pesticide residues.
• Corn Oil – controversial · High omega-6 vegetable oil that promotes inflammation when consumed regularly in large amounts.
• Salt – safe · Essential mineral for flavor, though processed foods often contain excessive amounts.
• Yellow Corn Flour – safe · Ground corn used as a coating agent, nutritionally similar to whole corn.
• Spices – safe · Natural flavor compounds that are generally safe and may provide antioxidants.
• Dextrose – controversial · Simple sugar derived from corn that rapidly raises blood glucose levels.
• Sugar – controversial · Added sucrose that contributes to blood sugar spikes and potential metabolic issues.
• Onion Powder – safe · Dehydrated onion providing natural flavor compounds with potential health benefits.
• Monosodium Glutamate – controversial · Flavor enhancer that may cause headaches and sensitivity reactions in some individuals.
• Tomato Powder – safe · Dried tomato providing umami flavor and lycopene antioxidants.
• Paprika – safe · Natural spice providing color and antioxidant compounds.
• Modified Corn Starch – safe · Chemically altered starch for improved texture, generally recognized as safe.
• Hydrolyzed Corn Gluten – controversial · Broken-down protein that creates glutamate compounds, potentially causing MSG-like reactions.
• Hydrolyzed Soy Protein – controversial · Processed soy protein that generates free glutamate, may cause sensitivity reactions.
• Hydrolyzed Wheat Gluten Protein – controversial · Processed wheat protein creating glutamate compounds, problematic for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Citric Acid – safe · Natural preservative and flavor enhancer that helps maintain product freshness.
• Extractives of Paprika – safe · Natural color extract from paprika providing orange-red hues.
• Garlic Powder – safe · Dehydrated garlic providing flavor and potential cardiovascular benefits.
• Artificial Color – controversial · Synthetic dyes that may cause hyperactivity in children and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
• Natural and Artificial Flavor – controversial · Undefined flavor compounds that may include hundreds of chemicals, some potentially problematic.
• Disodium Inosinate – safe · Nucleotide flavor enhancer that works synergistically with MSG to amplify taste.
• Disodium Guanylate – safe · Nucleotide flavor enhancer that enhances umami taste alongside other flavor compounds.

Corn provides some B vitamins and minerals

No trans fats listed

Contains some antioxidants from paprika and spices

High in inflammatory omega-6 corn oil

Contains MSG and hidden glutamate sources

Multiple artificial additives and colors

Added sugars increase blood sugar impact

Ultra-processed with minimal nutritional value

Designed for overconsumption through addictive flavor profile