Banana Chips vs Potato Chips: Which Snack Is Better For Your Health?

Banana Chips vs Potato Chips: When it comes to snacking across borders, banana chips and potato chips hold a special place in the pantry. While both the chips offer that satisfying crunch and irresistible flavour, how far is it healthy, lingers in the mind of the consumers. Many people assume that banana chips are a better alternative simply because they are made from the banana fruit. However, understanding the difference between banana chips and potato chips and which one earns a spot in the healthy pantry is all that matters for the overall well-being. Banana chips and potato chips vary in taste, texture, flavour, ingredients as well and nutritional profile. Here’s everything you need to know about whether banana chips or potato chips are healthy or not.

What Are Banana Chips?

They hail from the heart of Kerala and are made from ripe or semi-ripe bananas, which are thinly sliced and later deep-fried in coconut oil. The snack is seasoned with spices and salt. They offer a unique mix of sweetness and saltiness, having a crispy texture.

What Are Potato Chips?

Potato chips are made by slicing potatoes thin, frying them in regular oil and seasoning them with an assortment of flavours ranging from classic salt to tangy BBQ or onion and sour cream. This snack has managed to earn the position of most popular and iconic snack across the globe, which is loved by people of all age groups.

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Banana Chips vs Potato Chips: Taste, Texture And Preparation Methods

Although both chips are fried, their ingredients and preparation methods hold key differences. The flavour of these chips comes from the oil and the technique they are cooked. Banana chips have a distinct taste, with the flavouring of tropical fruit and coconut oil, offering a sweet-savoury combo, while potato chips are neutral, with seasoning doing almost all the flavour work.

Banana Chips vs Potato Chips: Health Considerations

If you have diabetes or want to keep a check on your blood sugar levels, banana chips have a slight advantage. Their glycemic index is generally lower than that of potato chips, meaning they won’t spike the blood sugar quickly.

Are Banana Chips Healthier Than Potato Chips? (Image Credits: Canva)

Banana Chips vs Potato Chips: Saturated Fat

Frying adds saturated fat, which depends on the oil used. Coconut oil is commonly used for banana chips, which contain more saturated fat than most vegetable oils, but it may not be harmful when consumed in moderate amounts. Potato chips are fried in refined oil, which can be harmful to the heart. Interestingly, the type of oil used in the preparation can alter the nutritional profile.

Banana Chips vs Potato Chips: Carbohydrates And Fibre

Banana chips have way more carbohydrates and fibre than potato chips. The natural fibre in bananas supports digestion and keeps the stomach full for longer. Potato chips are high in carbs and offer less dietary fibre, too.

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Banana Chips vs Potato Chips: Sodium Content

Both snacks can be loaded with sodium, especially the ones with flavoured varieties. High sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure and heart disease, so it’s always wise to opt for low-sodium or less salted versions.

Banana Chips vs Potato Chips: Which Is Healthier?

If you’re looking for more fibre, potassium and a lower glycemic index, you can opt for banana chips. Stick to potato chips if you prefer the classic taste and keep an eye on portion and sodium. A handful of chips can be a part of the balanced snack routine and eating in excess can be harmful in both cases. Thus, whether you eat banana chips or potato chips, mindful eating is all that matters.