Lay's Barbecue Chips

by Pepsico

Ultra-processed snack food loaded with inflammatory seed oils and multiple forms of processed sugars. While potatoes are the base, the heavy processing and problematic oil blend make this an occasional-only food that contributes to inflammation and metabolic dysfunction.

• Potatoes – safe · Whole food base ingredient providing fiber, potassium, and vitamin C when prepared properly.
• Vegetable Oil (Sunflower, Corn, and/or Canola Oil) – controversial · High omega-6 seed oils that promote inflammation and oxidize easily during high-heat processing.
• Sugar – controversial · Refined sugar that spikes blood glucose and contributes to metabolic dysfunction when consumed regularly.
• Dextrose – controversial · Highly processed corn sugar with higher glycemic index than table sugar, causing rapid blood sugar spikes.
• Salt – safe · Essential mineral used for flavor enhancement, though processed snacks tend to contain excessive amounts.
• Malted Barley Flour – safe · Natural grain ingredient that adds malty sweetness and umami flavor to the seasoning blend.
• Torula Yeast – safe · Inactive yeast that provides natural umami and savory flavor without artificial additives.
• Molasses – safe · Less processed sugar source that retains some minerals, though still contributes to total sugar load.
• Maltodextrin – controversial · Highly processed corn starch that spikes blood sugar faster than table sugar and may disrupt gut bacteria.
• Natural Flavors – safe · Flavor compounds derived from natural sources, though the specific chemicals are proprietary and unknown.
• Natural Smoke Flavor – safe · Natural flavoring derived from controlled burning of wood, providing smoky barbecue taste.
• Spices – beneficial · Natural plant-based seasonings that may provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Paprika – beneficial · Natural spice providing color and antioxidants including vitamin A and carotenoids.
• Corn Starch – safe · Natural thickening agent from corn that helps seasoning adhere to chips.
• Tomato Powder – beneficial · Dehydrated tomatoes providing natural flavor and antioxidants like lycopene.
• Garlic Powder – beneficial · Dehydrated garlic providing flavor and potential cardiovascular and antimicrobial benefits.
• Yeast Extract – safe · Natural flavor enhancer providing umami taste, similar to MSG but from natural fermentation.
• Onion Powder – beneficial · Dehydrated onion providing flavor and potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
• Paprika Extract – beneficial · Concentrated paprika providing natural red color and concentrated antioxidants.

No artificial preservatives

Contains some beneficial spices with antioxidants

Clear ingredient labeling

High in inflammatory seed oils

Multiple processed sugars cause blood sugar spikes

Ultra-processed with 19+ ingredients

Acrylamide formation from high-heat frying

Designed for overconsumption