Kettles Baked Potato Chips - A Healthier and Tastier Potato Chip Option

Kettles Baked Potato Chips: A Healthier Potato Chip Option

When potato chips come to mind, health food isn't usually the first thought. But some brands like Kettles are reinventing the iconic snack with baked versions made from real ingredients. Keep reading to learn why Kettles baked potato chips are a smarter chip choice.

Introducing Kettles Baked Potato Chips

Kettles is a chip brand focused on authentic potato flavor using high-quality ingredients. Their baked potato chips feature thin slices of real russet or red potatoes, baked until crisp. The result is a satisfying crunch and potato taste without the guilt of fried chips.

Kettles offers fun flavors beyond original like Jalapeño, Mature Cheddar & Chives, Sea Salt & Vinegar, and Cinnamon & Sugar. They also have veggie-based varieties made with lentils, chickpeas, and black beans for more nutrition.

Nutritional Benefits of Kettles Baked Chips

Here’s how Kettles baked chips compare to regular fried potato chips:

• 30-50% less fat per serving
• No trans fats from oil
• Lower in sodium
• Higher in potassium, vitamin B6, fiber
• No GMO ingredients

By baking instead of frying, Kettles eliminates a significant amount of fat and creates a lighter, crispier chip. Choosing portion-controlled servings further limits fat and calories.

Why Bake Instead of Fry Potato Chips?

Frying chips causes several downsides:

• Adds a lot of fat, raising calories
• Can create trans fats, the unhealthiest type of fat
• Frying oxidizes oils, creating free radicals
• High heat diminishes natural potato nutrition

Baking avoids these issues, creating a crunchy chip without compromising on potato flavor. Kettles' baked chips capture the potato essence beautifully.

Nutrition Profile of Kettles Baked Potato Chips

Let's dive into the nutrition facts on Kettles baked chips to see why they are considered a healthier potato chip option:

Serving Size

A standard 1 oz serving of Kettles baked chips contains around 19 chips. This single-serve portion contains 140-160 calories, depending on variety. Controlling portions is key with any potato chip.

Total Fat

Kettles baked chips contain 5-7g total fat per serving, significantly less than regular chips. They use non-GMO expeller-pressed canola oil to keep fats monounsaturated and lower in saturated fat.

Carbohydrates

There are around 20g net carbs per serving coming from the potatoes. Baked chips have a lower carb count than regular fried chips since they are so light and crisp.

Protein

A serving of Kettles baked chips contains 2-3g of plant-based protein. Varieties with lentils, chickpeas, and black beans offer slightly more protein.

Fiber

Kettles baked chips provide 2-3g of dietary fiber per serving, while regular fried chips have almost none. The fiber lends a satisfying, filling effect.

Sodium

Sodium content ranges from 110-220mg per serving among flavors. Kettles keeps sodium in check by not adding monosodium glutamate (MSG).

Kettles Baked Chips Nutrition Compared to Regular Chips

Looking at the numbers, Kettles baked potato chips are clearly a more nutritious choice than traditional fried potato chips:

Fewer Calories

With around 140 calories per serving, Kettles baked chips have 30-50% less calories than regular potato chips thanks to less fat.

Less Fat

A serving of regular potato chips has 10-15g fat, more than double that of Kettles baked chips. And the type of fat is healthier.

No Trans Fats

Frying chips in partially hydrogenated oils creates unhealthy trans fats. Baking avoids this issue.

More Fiber

Baked chips retain more potato fiber since they are not fried at high heat. This boosts filling fiber.

Lower Sodium

Without added MSG, Kettles baked chips contain less sodium per serving than regular fried chips.

Higher in Potassium

Kettles baked chips offer more potassium, an important electrolyte. Fried chips lose more nutrients.

Unique Flavor Varieties

Beyond original salted, Kettles offers inspired baked potato chip flavors like:

Jalapeño

These have a kick of heat and southwestern flavor from jalapeño pepper and spices.

Mature Cheddar and Chives

Real aged cheddar cheese and chive flakes create a savory, tangy chip.

Sea Salt and Vinegar

Tart sea salt and vinegar powder seasoning gives these chips a puckery zing.

Cinnamon and Sugar

For a sweet touch, these are dusted in a cinnamon sugar blend.

Chile Lime

Chile spice and lime bring Margarita-inspired zest to these chips.

Non-Potato Baked Chip Options

Alongside potato varieties, Kettles makes baked chips out of lentils, chickpeas, and black beans. These offer even more nutrition:

Lentil Chips

Made from hearty green lentils, these offer protein, fiber, iron, and potassium. Try Zesty Nacho or Chili Lime flavors.

Chickpea Chips

Nutty chickpeas add extra plant protein, fiber, and minerals like magnesium, copper, and zinc.

Black Bean Chips

Black bean chips provide fiber, antioxidant anthocyanins, and iron. Smoky BBQ is a standout flavor.

These veggie-based chips have 25-40% less fat than regular potato chips and 3-4g plant protein per serving.

Where to Buy Kettles Baked Potato Chips

Here are some places where you can find Kettles baked potato chips:

Grocery Stores

Check the chip aisle at grocery stores like Safeway, Kroger, Publix, Albertsons, Stop & Shop, etc. Larger stores carry wider selections.

Walmart

Many Walmart locations stock Kettles baked chips. Prices may be lower here.

Target

Target carries an assortment of Kettles baked chip flavors in smaller single-serve bags.

Amazon

Shop a huge variety of Kettles baked chips on Amazon, often sold in multi-packs to save money.

Direct from Kettles

You can shop all Kettles baked chip products on their website and find store locators.

Keep an eye out for sales and bulk options when stocking up on baked chips for home.

How to Serve and Store Kettles Baked Chips

Once you’ve purchased your favorite Kettles baked potato chips, proper storage and serving is key:

Seal Bags Tightly

After opening, roll or clip bags tightly to seal out air and prevent staleness.

Use Within 2 Weeks

For best freshness and taste, consume baked chips within 1-2 weeks of opening.

Store in Cool, Dry Area

Heat and humidity accelerate spoilage. Store unopened bags in a pantry or cupboard.

Serve in Bowls

To control portions, serve chips in individual bowls rather than snacking from the bag.

Pair with Dips and Spreads

Offer baked chips alongside guacamole, salsa, hummus, or other dips for more flavor.

Use as Recipe Toppings

Add crunch to salads, baked potatoes, and casseroles by topping with crushed baked chips.

Tips for Choosing Healthier Potato Chips

If you want to indulge in potato chips more nutritiously, keep these tips in mind:

Look for Baked Varieties

Chips labeled baked, not fried, slash fat and calories significantly.

Check Serving Sizes

Compare nutrition labels and choose brands with sensible single-serve sizes around 140 calories.

Avoid Trans Fats

Scan ingredients lists and pick chips without partially hydrogenated oils, which contain unhealthful trans fats.

Control Sodium

To limit sodium, opt for chips with less than 200mg sodium per serving.

Add More Nutrition

Choose veggie-based chips like Kettles lentil and black bean chips for more protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Try More Natural Brands

Look for chips emphasizing real, simple ingredients over artificial flavors and MSG.

With a more mindful approach, you can enjoy quality potato chips like Kettles baked varieties in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet.

Incorporating Kettles Baked Chips Into a Healthy Lifestyle

Here are some healthy ways to enjoy Kettles baked potato chips in your routine:

Mindful Snacking

When craving a salty snack, reach for a sensible portion of baked chips instead of alternatives like crackers or pretzels.

Guilt-Free Gatherings

Keep baked chips like Kettles on hand for parties and get-togethers instead of regular fried chips.

Healthy Potato Chip Recipes

Use Kettles baked chips as crunchy, flavorful toppers on main dishes like nachos, tacos, salads, and casseroles.

Packable Lunches

Toss a bag of baked chips in lunch bags and bento boxes for a savory crunch alongside sandwiches.

Potato Chip-Crusted Snapper

For a clever twist, crush baked chips and use as crunchy, lower-fat breading on fish fillets or chicken.

Satisfy snack cravings wisely by keeping healthier baked potato chips like Kettles in your pantry rotation and controlling portions.

Common Questions about Kettles Baked Chips

Are Kettles baked chips gluten free?

Yes, all Kettles baked potato chips are certified gluten-free, making them a good option for anyone avoiding gluten.

Do Kettles chips contain MSG?

No, Kettles baked chips are free of MSG and artificial flavors. They rely on real herbs, spices, cheese, etc. for seasoning.

Where are Kettles chips manufactured?

Kettles chips are made in the United States. Their production facilities are based in Wisconsin and Michigan.

Do Kettles chips go bad or expire?

Unopened bags last up to 9-12 months. Once opened, bags should be consumed within 1-2 weeks for best freshness and taste.

Are Kettles chips vegan?

Most Kettles varieties are vegan, except those with cheese flavors. Look for chips made with lentils, chickpeas, or beans for vegan options.

The Bottom Line on Kettles Baked Potato Chips

When a potato chip craving strikes, reach for a smarter option like Kettles baked chips. With 30-50% less fat and calories than regular fried potato chips, Kettles' baked varieties offer a lighter, crispier way to enjoy authentic potato flavor.

Made from wholesome ingredients like real russet potatoes, non-GMO canola oil, and unique seasonings, Kettles baked chips prove you can indulge wisely. Just be sure to stick to reasonable portion sizes.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.