Core Ingredients of Simply Doritos Cool Ranch
Unlike the classic version, the Simply variety of Doritos prioritizes natural ingredients, creating a flavor profile derived from real spices and dairy without any artificial colors or flavors. The foundation of the chips begins with U.S.-grown corn, cooked in sunflower oil for a crisp texture.
The Chip's Foundation
The list of ingredients for the tortilla chip itself is quite simple and revolves around a corn and oil base. The key components include:
- Whole Corn and Corn: Provides the essential foundation and classic crunch of a Dorito chip.
- Sunflower Oil: Used for cooking, this vegetable oil gives the chips their signature golden color and crispness.
The Zesty Seasoning
The signature “Zesty Cool Ranch” flavor comes from a specific combination of natural ingredients that provide the tangy, creamy, and savory notes.
- Dairy: Skim milk, buttermilk, and cream contribute to the creamy, tangy flavor that is characteristic of ranch seasoning.
- Spices and Herbs: A blend of herbs and spices is crucial for the flavor. Key components include garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley.
- Flavor Enhancers: The recipe uses a mix of ingredients to deepen the taste. These include corn maltodextrin, yeast extract, salt, and potassium salt.
- Acidity: To give the seasoning its zesty kick, citric acid and lactic acid are included.
- Tomato Powder: Adds an umami-rich, subtle sweetness that rounds out the savory profile.
Comparison: Simply Cool Ranch vs. Original Cool Ranch
The primary difference between the Simply and original versions of Doritos Cool Ranch is the use of natural ingredients over artificial ones. This table highlights some of the most significant disparities:
| Feature | Simply Doritos Cool Ranch | Original Doritos Cool Ranch |
|---|---|---|
| Colors | No artificial colors (color derived from ingredients like tomato powder). | Contains artificial colors (including Red 40, Blue 1, Yellow 5). |
| Flavors | Natural flavors only. | Natural and artificial flavors. |
| Oil | Cooked in sunflower oil. | Cooked in a blend of corn, canola, and/or sunflower oil. |
| Flavor Enhancers | Includes yeast extract. | Includes Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), Disodium Inosinate, and Disodium Guanylate. |
| Taste Profile | A more straightforward, dairy-forward tangy flavor. | A bolder, more complex flavor profile due to artificial enhancers. |
Potential Allergens and Dietary Considerations
The ingredient list of Simply Doritos Cool Ranch is relatively straightforward, but it's vital for those with food sensitivities to be aware of the allergens present. The product clearly states that it contains milk ingredients. This includes skim milk, buttermilk, and cream, making it unsuitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. Furthermore, those with severe sensitivities to milk should take note, as milk is a primary allergen listed.
Since the base is corn, it is free of major gluten-containing grains, but cross-contamination can occur in processing facilities, so individuals with celiac disease should always verify with the manufacturer. The use of natural flavors means that the exact composition is proprietary, which may be a concern for those with specific, less common allergies. However, the absence of artificial additives simplifies the ingredient list compared to the classic version.
Whole Grains and Oil Type
One of the key selling points of the Simply line is its emphasis on simpler, more wholesome ingredients. Each serving of Simply Doritos Cool Ranch contains 8 grams of whole grains, which provides more dietary fiber than its original counterpart. The decision to use sunflower oil, rather than a blend including corn or canola oil, is also a deliberate choice to align with consumer preferences for more easily recognizable ingredients.
For some consumers, the use of a single-source oil like sunflower oil is preferable to a blended vegetable oil, though both are common in snack food production. Frito-Lay's commitment to the Simply brand is to offer a different kind of snacking experience, one that focuses on quality ingredients and a less complex recipe. This aligns with growing consumer demand for transparency and cleaner labels in the food industry.
Conclusion
For those who prefer a less processed snack with a more transparent ingredient list, knowing what are the ingredients in Doritos Simply Cool Ranch offers significant reassurance. The recipe features whole corn, sunflower oil, and a seasoning derived from real dairy and natural spices, completely avoiding artificial colors and flavors found in the original version. The result is a tangy, delicious tortilla chip that provides the familiar taste of Cool Ranch with a cleaner profile. This distinction makes the Simply version a clear choice for health-conscious snackers and those with sensitivities to artificial additives, demonstrating Frito-Lay's recognition of a shifting consumer market. The product is not suitable for those with milk allergies due to the inclusion of multiple dairy ingredients.
