Are Potato Chips Ok if They’re Made with Olive Oil?
An anxious reader wonders if olive oil or avocado oil potato chips are better than regular potato chips. Nutrition Diva has the (sad but true) answer.
Q. “Potato chips are my weakness, which is why I never ever buy them (OK, I did today, but generally I stay away). Lately, I’ve been seeing companies promoting chips that are cooked in avocado oil or olive oil. It would be so awesome if these were somehow better for me than the plain ones. Are they?”
Answer. Well, there’s good news and bad news. Olive and avocado oil are relatively low in polyunsaturated fats, which means there’s less chance that they’ll form harmful compounds when heated. (See also: Best oils for cooking) Both of these oils are high in monounsaturated fats, which are less likely to contribute to heart disease.
On the other hand, chips fried in olive or avocado oil are just as likely to form acrylamides. (See also: Acrylamide in food: Should you be worried?)
But here’s the real bad news: Frying potato chips in “healthy” oils doesn’t make them any lower in fat, carbs, calories, sodium….or any less addicting. But don’t feel too bad. We all have our weaknesses. (Mine are Swedish fish.) It’s OK to give into those cravings occasionally…just don’t make a habit of it.
Related content: Junk Food in Disguise
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.
