Tag: Pea starch

According to a 2023 study published in *Journal of Medicinal Food*, pea starch consumption was not found to cause negative gastrointestinal symptoms in healthy adults. This suggests the question, "Is pea starch bad for your gut?" is often based on misconceptions about its digestion and its role in promoting digestive health.

Over half of consumers perceive pea starch to be healthier than other starches, fueling its popularity in clean-label products. But beyond the positive perception, is pea starch good or bad for your health and diet? Its high amylose content and classification as a resistant starch offers distinct nutritional advantages that set it apart from other common thickeners.

While some nutritional labels show total carbohydrates for pea starch at over 85 grams per 100-gram serving, this number can be misleading. So, is pea starch high in carbs in a way that negatively impacts blood sugar? The answer lies in how the body processes its unique resistant starch profile.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, global production of green peas reached 21.5 million tonnes in 2023, showcasing the legume's widespread cultivation. But what is pea found in beyond a simple pod? The humble pea is a powerhouse ingredient, processed into a variety of valuable components used across the food industry.

According to nutritional data, pea starch is predominantly a carbohydrate, with some sources citing it as high as 87-90% pure carbohydrate. This ingredient, extracted from peas, is a concentrated form of the complex sugars found naturally in the legume, making it a powerful functional food additive in a variety of products.

According to Chick-fil-A's own website and confirmation from vegan advocacy groups, the popular waffle fries are indeed vegan-friendly. However, recent recipe changes and shared cooking equipment mean the full picture is more nuanced for those with strict dietary standards.

According to a 2023 study published in the *Journal of Medicinal Food*, native pea starch significantly reduces postprandial glycemic response compared to rapidly digested carbohydrates like maltodextrin. This powerful finding suggests that the answer to, “is pea starch good for you?” is more complex and compelling than one might assume, extending beyond its role as a simple thickening agent.

According to numerous sources, Chick-fil-A made headlines in late 2024 by altering its waffle fries recipe to include pea starch. This change, intended to improve crispiness, highlights a growing trend of restaurants using pea starch, a versatile and gluten-free ingredient, in their menu items.

In January 2025, Chick-fil-A made a "slight adjustment" to its waffle fries recipe by adding pea starch to the coating to increase crispiness. This recipe change has sparked debate among customers and led many to ask, "What is Chick-fil-A putting on their fries?"

Over 54% of consumers perceive pea starch as a healthier option compared to other starches. This article investigates the health aspects of pea starch, including its impact on blood sugar, gut health, and suitability for various diets..