What are Kettle Brand Himalayan Salt Potato Chips?
Kettle Brand makes a line of premium potato chips flavored with Himalayan pink salt. These kettle-cooked chips are thick-cut and crunchy with a distinct salty flavor derived from the mineral-rich pink salt from the Himalayan mountains.
The chips are cooked in small batches in kettles to give them a hearty, crispy texture. Kettle Brand uses select whole potatoes sliced thickly to make their chips and fries them in non-hydrogenated sunflower and/or safflower oil.
In addition to the Himalayan Salt flavor, Kettle Brand also offers these potato chips in other flavors like Sea Salt & Vinegar, Jalapeño, and Backyard Barbeque. The chips are gluten-free, kosher, and made without GMO ingredients.
Nutrition Profile of Himalayan Salt Chips
Here is the nutrition breakdown for a 1-ounce (about 18 chips) serving of Kettle Brand Himalayan Sea Salt potato chips:
Calories: 160
With 160 calories per serving, these chips are moderately high in calories. The main contributors are the oil used for frying and the potatoes.
Fat: 10g
A serving contains 10g of fat, which is considered high. However, Kettle Brand uses heart-healthy unsaturated oils high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
Sodium: 170mg
There are 170mg of sodium per serving. This accounts for around 7% of the recommended daily value. The Himalayan sea salt provides a natural source of sodium.
Carbs: 18g
Each serving contains 18g of carbohydrates, which includes 2g of fiber and under 1g sugar.
Protein: 2g
These chips provide 2g of plant-based protein per serving, mainly from the potatoes.
Vitamins and Minerals
Himalayan sea salt contains trace amounts of important minerals like magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, iodine, and more. The potatoes also provide vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B6.
Benefits of Kettle Brand Himalayan Sea Salt Chips
Here are some of the potential benefits that set these chips apart from traditional potato chips:
Lower Sodium
Compared to regular potato chips, Kettle Brand’s Himalayan salt chips contain significantly less added sodium per serving. The sea salt provides flavor with less overall sodium.
Natural Pink Salt
Himalayan sea salt comes from ancient sea salt deposits, containing a wide array of minerals and elements. This provides natural flavor and nutrients compared to processed table salt.
Healthy Oils
The chips are fried in a blend of heart-healthy sunflower and/or safflower oils high in monounsaturated fats. No hydrogenated oils are used.
Whole Potatoes
Made from fresh whole potatoes rather than potato flakes. This provides more potato nutrition like potassium, vitamin C and B6.
No Artificial Ingredients
Kettle Brand chips contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Only natural ingredients are used to add flavor.
Gluten-Free
The chips are certified gluten-free, making them a good option for anyone avoiding gluten.
Non-GMO
All ingredients used are non-GMO. The chips do not contain any genetically modified corn, potatoes, or oils.
Downsides of Kettle Brand Himalayan Chips
While healthier than regular potato chips, these snacks do come with some drawbacks:
High in Fat
A serving packs 10g of fat, mostly from the sunflower oil used for frying. The fat content makes them more of a sometimes food.
High Calories
At 160 calories per serving, it's easy to overindulge and take in excess calories. Portion control is key.
Low Fiber and Protein
With only 2g each of fiber and protein per serving, the chips don't offer much nutrition or keep you full. They lack the protein and fiber of whole foods.
Processed Food
While made from sliced whole potatoes, this heavily processed snack food should not replace whole fruits and veggies.
Added Salt
The Himalayan sea salt adds a considerable amount of sodium, around 170mg per serving.
Comparing Himalayan Salt Chips to Regular Potato Chips
How do these roasted Himalayan pink salt chips stack up against traditional fried potato chips?
Sodium
Kettle Brand chips have significantly less sodium than regular chips, around 170mg vs 270mg per serving.
Oil
The oil used is heart healthier unsaturated fats instead of partially hydrogenated oils common in regular chips.
Coloring
No artificial coloring agents are added. The pinkish hue comes naturally from the Himalayan salt.
Preservatives
Kettle Brand chips contain no chemical preservatives, while regular potato chips often contain additives.
Flavors
The Himalayan sea salt provides most of the flavor instead of artificial flavors.
Potatoes
Made from sliced whole potatoes rather than reconstituted potato flakes.
Where to Buy Kettle Brand Himalayan Salt Chips
You can find Kettle Brand potato chips at most major grocery stores alongside other potato chip brands. Some places you can buy them include:
Grocery Stores
Look for Kettle Brand chips in the chip aisle at grocery chains like Safeway, Kroger, Publix, Albertsons, Stop & Shop, etc.
Big Box Stores
Retailers like Target, Walmart, and Costco often carry selections of Kettle Brand chips.
Warehouse Clubs
Warehouse stores like Sam's Club and BJ's frequently stock Kettle Brand potato chips.
Online
You can order Kettle Brand Himalayan salt chips online from retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, Thrive Market, Vitacost, and others.
Natural Food Stores
Health food stores like Sprouts, Whole Foods, and Earthfare have extensive chip selections including Kettle Brand.
How to Save Money on Kettle Brand Chips
Here are some tips for saving on your Kettle Brand Himalayan salt chip purchases:
Buy in Bulk
Purchasing larger bags generally provides the best per-ounce cost. Club stores offer bulk sizes.
Look for Sales
Stock up when you see Kettle Brand chips on sale at grocery stores or online retailers.
Use Coupons
Print online coupons to save a dollar or two off your next Kettle Brand chips purchase.
Price Match
Use apps to price match Kettle chips across stores in your area and always get the lowest price.
Store Brands
Try comparable roasted Himalayan salt potato chips from stores' organic brands to potentially save money.
Buy Online
Online stores may offer better regular pricing than local brick and mortar retailers.
Healthy Potato Chip Alternatives
If seeking a more nutritious crunchy snack, here are some alternatives to try instead of Kettle Brand chips:
Baked Veggie Chips
Chips made from thinly sliced vegetables like kale, carrots, and beets provide more nutrition without oil.
Popcorn
Air-popped or stove-top popcorn is a whole grain low calorie snack that's high fiber.
Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds etc. make for crunchy, protein-rich snacks full of healthy fats.
Edamame
These immature soybeans are extremely nutritious and satisfying. Look for dry roasted edamame.
Hummus and Vegetables
Dip crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery into protein-rich hummus.
Bean and Rice Crackers
Crackers made from brown rice, black beans, quinoa, etc. provide whole grain goodness.
Tips for Healthy Snacking on Chips
If you do enjoy an occasional bag of Kettle Brand Himalayan salt chips, here are some tips for keeping your snacking healthy:
Read Labels
Compare nutrition facts to pick the healthiest chips for your needs. Seek low sodium and no hydrogenated oils.
Portion Control
Stick to proper serving sizes instead of mindless overeating. Pre-portion chips to avoid overindulging.
Pair With Nutrition
Enjoy chips alongside fresh veggies, hummus, guacamole, or other nutritious foods for more balanced snacking.
Limit Frequency
Make chips an occasional indulgence rather than a daily habit to prevent nutritionally empty calories from displacing healthier fare.
Don't Mindlessly Eat
Avoid snacking directly from the bag while distracted. This leads to overconsumption.
The Bottom Line
Kettle Brand's line of Himalayan salt potato chips offers some benefits over traditional potato chips, like less sodium, better fats, and no artificial ingredients. However, moderation and portion control are still key due to the high calorie and fat content per serving.
While a crunchy and flavorful snack, even these "healthier" chips should not replace whole, minimally processed foods in a balanced diet. Enjoy them occasionally as a special indulgent treat if they fit within your daily calorie needs.
FAQs
Are Kettle Brand Himalayan salt chips healthy?
They are healthier than regular potato chips but still contain 10g fat and 160 calories per serving, so portion control is important. They make a better occasional treat than daily snack.
Are the chips gluten-free?
Yes, Kettle Brand’s Himalayan salt potato chips are certified gluten-free and contain no wheat ingredients.
Do the chips have any preservatives?
No, Kettle Brand chips are made without any artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.
What oil is used to cook the chips?
The chips are cooked in a blend of heart-healthy sunflower and/or safflower oil, which are high in good unsaturated fats.
Where can I find the Himalayan salt chips?
The chips are sold at most major grocery stores, warehouse clubs, online retailers, and natural food stores.
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.
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