Core Components: The Foundation of the Crisp
Sweet Chilli Sensations are made with sliced potatoes as the base, fried in a blend of sunflower and rapeseed oil to achieve their texture. Salt is added to enhance the flavour, and firming agents like calcium chloride or calcium lactate are used to maintain the crisp's structure.
The Thai Sweet Chilli Seasoning Blend
The unique taste of these crisps comes from their seasoning blend, which balances sweet, spicy, and savoury elements.
Key Flavour Ingredients
The sweetness in the seasoning comes from sugar and fructose. Savoury and umami notes are provided by soya sauce powder (containing wheat) and hydrolysed vegetable protein (containing soya). Spices and herbs such as dried onion, garlic, red chilli flakes, parsley, paprika, and red bell pepper powder contribute to the Thai-inspired flavour. Natural flavourings are also included.
Other Seasoning Components
Citric acid is used as an acidity regulator for tanginess, and potassium chloride acts as a salt substitute and enhancer. Antioxidants like rosemary extract, ascorbic acid, and tocopherol rich extract are added for preservation.
Comparison of Thai Sweet Chilli Crisps vs. Nuts
The ingredients for Thai Sweet Chilli flavoured products can vary, even within the same brand. For example, the crisps and the nut version have distinct bases and flavouring nuances.
| Feature | Sensations Thai Sweet Chilli Crisps | Sensations Thai Sweet Chilli Peanuts |
|---|---|---|
| Base Ingredient | Sliced potatoes | Peanuts |
| Sweeteners | Sugar, Fructose | Sugar, Fructose, Honey |
| Allergens | Contains/May Contain: Wheat, Soya, Milk (depending on variant), Gluten, Barley, Celery, Mustard | Contains/May Contain: Wheat, Soya, Nuts, Gluten, Barley, Celery, Mustard, Milk (depending on variant) |
| Key Spices | Dried Chilli Flakes, Dried Onion, Dried Garlic, Red Bell Pepper Powder | Chilli Powder, Spices |
| Texture | Crunchy potato crisp | Crunchy peanut |
Important Allergen Information
Consumers should be aware of several allergens in Sweet Chilli Sensations. The crisps contain wheat and soya due to the soya sauce powder and hydrolysed soya protein. Older recipes included milk (buttermilk powder), making them unsuitable for those with dairy allergies. While newer versions may exclude milk, checking the packaging is crucial. The product contains gluten because of the wheat content. The manufacturer also notes the possibility of cross-contamination with other allergens handled in the factory, such as barley, celery, and mustard.
Conclusion
Knowing what are the ingredients in Sweet Chilli Sensations is important for dietary management. The flavour is a complex blend of sweet, savoury, and spicy notes from a variety of ingredients. While the base is simple potato and oil, the seasoning is intricate. Due to potential recipe updates, always check the specific packet's ingredient list for the most accurate and current information, especially regarding allergens and suitability for diets like veganism. For example, the removal of milk powder has made some versions suitable for vegans, but checking the label is necessary due to possible old stock.
Consumers can find more details on official brand websites or food databases.
