Simply Doritos vs. Regular Doritos: A Detailed Breakdown
Frito-Lay's extensive portfolio of snack products includes the iconic Doritos brand, and over the years, the company has released numerous variations to meet changing consumer demands. The introduction of the 'Simply' line was a response to the growing market for snacks with simpler, more natural ingredient lists. At first glance, the two products might seem very similar, but a deeper dive into their composition, taste, and nutritional value reveals key differences. Consumers are often curious about whether 'Simply' translates to 'healthier' and what trade-offs might exist in terms of flavor and texture.
The Ingredients: Where 'Simply' Makes a Difference
The most significant and immediate point of divergence between Simply Doritos and their regular counterparts is the ingredient list. Regular Doritos, like the Nacho Cheese flavor, are known for their vibrant color and complex, sometimes artificial, flavor profile. A typical bag of regular Doritos contains ingredients such as corn, vegetable oils (corn, canola, and/or sunflower oil), maltodextrin, and a blend of artificial colors like Yellow 6, Yellow 5, and Red 40. It also often includes flavor enhancers such as monosodium glutamate (MSG).
In contrast, Simply Doritos are intentionally created with a cleaner label. They are made with organic corn and expeller-pressed sunflower oil, avoiding genetically engineered ingredients often used in conventional corn products. The White Cheddar Nacho flavor, a popular Simply variety, gets its color and taste from real, organic cheese and natural flavorings derived from ingredients like organic buttermilk, organic tomato powder, and other spices. There are no artificial colors or flavors added, a major selling point for the Simply line.
Flavor and Texture: Subtle but Noticeable Differences
The ingredient differences lead directly to variations in taste and texture. Regular Doritos are famous for their intense, punchy flavor and unmistakable dusty coating. The artificial ingredients are engineered to deliver a powerful, consistent flavor experience with each chip. Their texture is a crisp, medium-thin chip that is universally recognized.
Simply Doritos, on the other hand, tend to have a milder, more authentic flavor profile. The taste is derived from natural, organic seasonings, which results in a less overwhelming and more nuanced flavor. The visual appearance is also different; lacking the artificial dyes, Simply Doritos often have a less saturated, paler color. Some consumers report that Simply Doritos have a slightly different texture as well, with a grainier mouthfeel compared to the standard variety. The overall flavor is often described as cheesy and savory, but without the artificial kick that defines the original.
Nutritional Information: Surprisingly Similar Outcomes
Many assume that a 'Simply' or 'organic' label automatically means a product is a significantly healthier choice. However, when comparing the core nutritional information per serving, the differences are often minimal. A 2017 review found that Simply Doritos carried nearly as much fat and sodium as the regular version, and sometimes even more calories per serving. While the ingredients are less processed and more natural, the fundamental components of a snack chip—corn, oil, and salt—are still present in both versions. For example, a 1-ounce serving of Simply Doritos White Cheddar Nacho contains 150 calories and 8 grams of fat, while a comparable serving of regular Nacho Cheese Doritos is 147 calories and 7.8 grams of fat.
Here is a comparison table to summarize the key differences:
| Feature | Simply Doritos | Regular Doritos |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Organic corn, sunflower oil, real organic cheese, natural flavors | Corn, vegetable oils, synthetic flavors, artificial colors |
| Artificial Additives | No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives | Contains artificial colors (Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Red 40) and artificial flavors |
| Flavor Profile | Milder, more authentic, natural cheese taste | Intense, bold, and sometimes artificial flavor profile |
| Appearance | Pale, less saturated coloring, often off-white or yellowish | Distinctive, vibrant, and intense orange-red color |
| Texture | Potentially grainier texture; still crisp | Classic, consistent, and smooth-textured corn chip |
| Key Nutritional Values | High in calories, fat, and sodium; often comparable to regular | High in calories, fat, and sodium; often comparable to Simply |
| Pricing | Often sold at a higher price point | Typically less expensive |
The Consumer Choice: Weighing the Options
The choice between Simply Doritos and regular Doritos comes down to consumer priorities. For those whose primary concern is avoiding artificial ingredients, Simply Doritos are the clear winner. They are a suitable option for individuals who prefer cleaner, organic ingredients without preservatives or synthetic colors. The taste is different, but for many, the trade-off is worthwhile for the peace of mind that comes with a simpler ingredient list. The 'organic' or 'natural' label is a significant consideration for families and individuals who prefer to buy products that are perceived as more wholesome.
However, if the main objective is to find a lower-calorie or lower-fat snack, Simply Doritos are not a guaranteed solution. The nutritional similarity means that moderation is key, regardless of which version you choose. Some consumers may also prefer the bolder, more nostalgic flavor of regular Doritos and are willing to overlook the artificial ingredients for the classic taste they have grown to love.
Conclusion
The difference between Simply Doritos and regular Doritos is not about a dramatic shift in core nutritional content, but rather a philosophical and ingredient-based one. Simply Doritos offer a cleaner, organic product free from artificial colors and flavors, catering to a specific segment of the market. Regular Doritos, conversely, stick to their tried-and-true recipe, delivering a powerful and consistent flavor profile using synthetic additives. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preference for ingredients versus intensity of flavor. Neither option is a 'health food,' but for those prioritizing simpler, organic ingredients, Simply Doritos provide a compelling alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between simply Doritos and regular Doritos?
The primary difference is the ingredients: Simply Doritos use organic corn, real cheese, and natural flavorings, while regular Doritos contain synthetic food dyes and artificial flavors.
Are Simply Doritos healthier than regular Doritos?
Simply Doritos are not necessarily healthier from a nutritional standpoint. They often have comparable calorie, fat, and sodium counts per serving to regular Doritos, though they are made with simpler, organic ingredients and no artificial additives.
Do Simply Doritos have a different flavor than regular Doritos?
Yes, Simply Doritos have a milder, more natural cheese taste compared to the intense, bold, and sometimes artificial-tasting flavor of regular Doritos.
What gives regular Doritos their bright orange color?
The vibrant color of regular Nacho Cheese Doritos comes from artificial food dyes, specifically Yellow 6, Yellow 5, and Red 40.
Are Simply Doritos gluten-free?
While Simply Doritos are made with corn, some variations may contain other ingredients with gluten or be manufactured in facilities that process wheat. It is important to check the specific product packaging for the most accurate allergen information.
Why are Simply Doritos more expensive?
Simply Doritos are often more expensive due to the higher cost of organic ingredients and the specialized production process required to meet organic certification standards.
What flavors do Simply Doritos come in?
Simply Doritos are most famously available in White Cheddar Nacho flavor, which is a creamy and sharp cheese alternative to the regular Nacho Cheese.
Is 'Simply' a healthier option across all Frito-Lay products?
The 'Simply' line across Frito-Lay brands, including Cheetos and Tostitos, focuses on removing artificial ingredients and using simpler, often organic alternatives. While it offers a cleaner ingredient list, the overall nutritional profile (calories, fat) is typically similar to the regular versions.
