10 Best-Selling Chips Ranked From Healthiest to Worst

Chips are one of the most popular snack foods in the world, but they vary widely in terms of nutrition. While some options are made with wholesome ingredients and lower fat content, others are loaded with sodium, artificial flavors, and unhealthy oils. If you’re looking to make a better choice for your snack cravings, here’s how the 10 best-selling chips rank from the healthiest to the worst.

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1. Popchips

Popchips are one of the healthiest options available, thanks to their unique cooking process. Instead of being fried, they are air-popped. This significantly reduces their fat content. They also contain no artificial flavors or preservatives, making them a lighter alternative to traditional potato chips. With fewer calories and less oil, Popchips are a smart choice for those looking to snack guilt-free.

2. SunChips

SunChips are marketed as a healthier option because they are made with whole grains. They also contain more fiber than regular chips. While they do have some added seasoning and sodium, their ingredient list is cleaner than most brands. The multigrain blend provides a heartier texture and a bit more nutritional value, making them a better alternative to standard potato chips.

3. Kettle Brand Avocado Oil Chips

Kettle Brand’s Avocado Oil Chips are a step above traditional chips. This is due to their healthier oil choice. Avocado oil is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are better for heart health compared to vegetable or canola oils. They are still high in calories and sodium, but the use of avocado oil gives them a slight nutritional advantage.

4. Lay’s Baked Chips

Lay’s Baked Chips contain significantly less fat than their fried counterparts, making them a better option for those watching their calorie intake. However, they do contain some added starches and artificial flavors to maintain their crisp texture. While not perfect, they are a decent alternative to traditional Lay’s if you want to reduce fat consumption.

5. Ruffles Original

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Ruffles Original is a classic snack but falls into the middle of the ranking due to their high sodium and oil content. They contain more ridges and thicknesses than standard chips. This means they absorb more oil during frying. While they don’t have many artificial ingredients, the fat and calorie content make them less than ideal for frequent snacking.

6. Doritos Nacho Cheese

Doritos are undeniably delicious, but they start to move into the unhealthy category due to artificial flavors, preservatives, and high sodium levels. The combination of cheesy seasoning and flavor enhancers like MSG makes them highly addictive. That is not great for overall health. If you’re indulging in Doritos, moderation is key.

7. Lay’s Classic Potato Chips

Lay’s Classic Potato Chips are one of the best-selling chips in the world, but they rank low on the health scale. They are made with just three ingredients—potatoes, oil, and salt—but the frying process increases their fat and calorie count significantly. Without fiber or protein, they offer little nutritional value beyond a satisfying crunch.

8. Pringles Original

Pringles may be a fan favorite, but they are one of the more processed options on this list. Unlike traditional chips, Pringles are made from a mix of potato flakes and starches, creating a uniform texture and shape. They also contain a higher amount of sodium and preservatives compared to regular chips. This makes them a less healthy choice.

9. Cheetos Crunchy

Cheetos are packed with artificial flavors, colorings, and processed cheese. This lands them near the bottom of the ranking. They are high in unhealthy fats and sodium while offering little nutritional value. The bright orange coating is fun but is a clear sign of the heavy processing involved in making these chips.

10. Takis Fuego

Takis Fuego ranks as the least healthy chip on this list due to its excessive sodium, artificial colors, and intense seasoning. These rolled tortilla chips are heavily processed and contain high amounts of saturated fat and preservatives. The spicy coating can also be harsh on the stomach, making them one of the worst choices for a regular snack.

While chips are a tasty treat, some options are much healthier than others. Air-popped and whole-grain varieties offer better nutritional benefits. Highly processed, fried, and artificially flavored chips should be enjoyed in moderation. If you’re looking for a better way to satisfy your snack cravings, opting for healthier alternatives can help you indulge without the guilt.