Let’s be honest: crisps have a reputation problem. They’re the snack we love but feel guilty about, the treat we hide in our desk drawers, the “bad choice” we make when we’re stressed. But are crisps really the villain we’ve made them out to be?
The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. It’s about what’s actually inside the bag.
The Traditional Crisp: What You’re Really Eating
Pick up a standard bag of crisps and you’re looking at something pretty straightforward: potatoes, oil, and salt. A typical 40g serving contains around 5-7g of fat, 20-25g of carbs, and about 2g of protein. Not exactly a nutritional powerhouse, but not poison either.
The real issue? Most traditional crisps are:
- Deep-fried (hello, excess oil)
- Low in protein and fiber (no staying power)
- Easy to overeat (we’ve all finished a “sharing” bag alone)
They’re not inherently evil. They’re just… empty. They satisfy a craving for five minutes, then leave you hungry and reaching for more.
What Makes a Crisp “Better”?
Here’s where it gets interesting. Not all crisps are created equal, and the new generation of snacks is changing the game. The difference comes down to three things:
1. How it’s made
Baking instead of frying cuts down on unnecessary fat while keeping that satisfying crunch. It’s a small change that makes a real difference.
2. What it’s made from
This is the big one. Swap out regular potatoes for protein-rich ingredients like mycoprotein, chickpeas, or lentils, and suddenly you’re not just snacking – you’re actually fueling your body. Mycoprotein, for example, is a complete protein that’s sustainable and packed with fiber.
3. What’s added (or not added)
More fiber, meaningful protein, less salt. Simple upgrades that transform a guilty pleasure into something you can feel good about.
Let’s Talk Numbers: A Real Comparison
Take a 40g serving – the perfect snack size. Here’s what you might find:
Traditional Crisp:
- 2g protein
- 1-2g fiber
- 10-12g fat
- 200+ calories of… not much
Next-Gen Protein Crisp (like Forma):
- 9-10g protein (that’s real fuel)
- 4-5g fiber (keeps you satisfied)
- 6-8g fat (balanced, not excessive)
- 120-130 calories that actually work for you
The difference? One leaves you reaching for another snack in an hour. The other keeps you going.