Discover some of the best non-UPF crisps and chips that you can find in supermarkets across the UK, Australia and US.
Cutting ultra-processed foods (UPFs) from your diet is no easy feat. When you start to consider your favourite snack foods, it's even more overwhelming.
But what do you do when the craving strikes? While we all know it's better to eat whole foods as much as possible, sometimes you can't help but want a few crisps- even when trying to stick to a non-UPF diet. Because life is all about moderation, we decided to seek out some of the best UPF-free crisps for those times when you want to indulge. While eating healthy snacks like fresh fruit and whole grains is always a better option, sometimes you just need a handful of potato chips!
From crispy tortilla chips to vegetable crisps, there's a non-UPF snack on this list to satisfy every craving.
What are UPFs?
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs), as classified by the NOVA food classification system, are heavily processed products that often contain additives like emulsifiers, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives-ingredients rarely found in a home kitchen. While these foods are convenient, research links them to health problems such as heart disease, obesity and even poor mental health outcomes such as depression and anxiety. Many store-bought crisps fall into the ultra-processed category, as they're often packed with flavour enhancers, preservatives, and high levels of salt rather than simple, whole ingredients. Luckily, there are plenty of UPF-free alternatives that deliver all the crunch and taste without the unnecessary additives.
Are UPF-free crisps healthy?
Choosing UPF-free crisps can be a healthier option than their ultra-processed counterparts, as they typically contain fewer additives and preservatives. However, it's important to note that even minimally processed crisps can still have a high salt and fat content, which, when consumed in excess, may contribute to a high calorie intake and risk of high blood pressure. Therefore, while UPF-free crisps are generally a better choice, they should still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Make sure your meals are full of proper food (including protein sources and fibre) to ensure you're getting in essential nutrients and save the bag of crisps for a special treat.
The biggest UPF culprits
While many crisps and chips do contain UPF ingredients, they're not the only foods to look out for when aiming for a UPF-free diet.
Other foods that typically contain UPFs include:
- Fizzy drinks
- Fast food
- Ice cream
- Ready meals
- A lot of bread that's found in the grocery store
UPF ingredients in crisps
It can be overwhelming to look at an ingredients list and try to discern what is and isn't a UPF.
Here are some common UPF ingredients that are often found in crips and chips:
Flavour enhancers
Flavour enhancers are added to chips to make them taste better. Usually, flavoured crisps (barbecue, herb, etc.) have extra flavour enhancers added to achieve a certain taste.
Common flavour enhancers in crisps:
- Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
- Disodium inosinate
- Disodium guanylate
- Artificial smoke
- Cheese flavouring
Emulsifiers and stabilisers
Emulsifiers and stabilisers are added to crisps to help ensure that they stay crisp whilst in the packet. These ingredients also help the ingredients bind together and are added to improve texture.
Common emulsifiers and stabilisers in crisps:
- Lecithins (soy or sunflower lecithin)
- Modified starches
Preservatives
Preservatives help extend the shelf life of crips and prevent the fats and oils in them from going rancid.
Common preservatives in crisps:
- Sodium benzoate
- Calcium propionate
- Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA)
- Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)
Vegetable oil and fat replacers
While high-quality crisps may be made with olive oil, most use ultra-processed oils instead of healthier alternatives.
Common fats and oils in crisps:
- Palm oil
- Hydrogenated oils
- Trans fats
- Fractionated coconut oil
Excessive salt & sodium compounds
These sodium compounds differ from regular salt (sodium chloride) in their chemical structure and function. While salt is primarily used for flavour, these additives serve additional purposes in processed foods like crisps, such as flavour, texture and preservation.
Common sodium compounds in crisps:
- Sodium nitrate
- Sodium phosphate
- Disodium dihydrogen pyrophosphate
Some of the best Non-UPF Crisps
UK
San Nicasio Potato Chips, Himalayan Pink Salt
If you're after a gourmet, crisp this brand just might be your best option. These crisps have won 13 consecutive gold medals (2008-2020) in the Monde Selection competition in Brussels. Just be warned, it will take a lot of control to limit yourself to just a few!
Torres, 100% Extra Virgin Oil Crisps
These artisan made chips are so much better than the competitors. One bite of these sea salt and olive chips and you will bid farewell to the usual sunflower oil-fried options forever. Thin and crunchy, they may just be the ultimate crisp.
El Valle, Premium Olive Oil Chips
These premium chips from Spain use natural ingredients of the highest quality to ensure a delicious crisp for discerning palates.
Australia
Boulder Canyon, Olive Oil Classic Sea Salt Crisps
Want the freshness without the incredibly long shelf life only achieved by preservatives? We love that these crisps are made in small batches to ensure maximum freshness and flavour!
Quillo, Olive Oil & Flower of Salt Potato Chips
One thing that makes this packet of crisps stand out is the use of 'flour of salt'. Also known as powdered salt, it's very fine giving you an instant salty flavour.
Anaviejam Potato Chips EVOO Certified Organic
Not only are these chips UPF-free but they're also certified organic -- making them a winner in our books.
US
Siete, Sea Salt Grain Free Tortilla Chips
With cassava flour and starch included, these grain-free tortilla chips contain more ingredients than the other options on this list. However, while these ingredients are somewhat processed, they are not modified to the extent of being considered a UPF. This makes these chips a great option for anyone looking for a corn chip alternative, as many of the others you'll find contain sunflower or vegetable oils, which can be UPFs depending on how they're made.
Good Health, Sea Salt Olive Oil Kettle-Style Potato Chips
With a mission to make perfectly seasoned, high-quality, gourmet crisps, Good Health created this take on the classic kettle chip. If you're looking for a lower-sodium chip, this is one of the best options with less salt.
José Andrés Foods, Extra Virgin Olive Oil Chips
Created by Spanish-American chef, José Andrés, these high-quality crisps are nothing short of delicious. Using only the best Spanish "Agria" potatoes, these crisps are slow-fried in extra virgin olive oil. The result is a delightfully crunchy crisp that pairs perfectly with tapas.
Avoiding UPFs? Also check out some of the best non-UPF chocolate options!
