Navigating the Crisp Aisle for Low-Calorie Choices
Finding satisfying crisps that fit into a calorie-controlled diet is simpler than you might think, especially with multipack options designed for portion control. Many major snack manufacturers now offer specific ranges where each bag contains 100 calories or less, making them a popular choice for mindful snacking. These products are typically baked, popped, or made from lighter ingredients, resulting in a lower calorie count compared to standard fried crisps.
Popular Multipack Crisps Under 100 Calories
Several well-known crisp brands provide multipack bags that fit the sub-100 calorie mark. These are widely available in most supermarkets and online grocery stores.
- Walkers Quavers: These famously light and curly crisps are a consistent favourite. A standard 16g multipack bag of Cheese flavour contains approximately 89 calories.
- Walkers French Fries: Another classic option, French Fries are a very low-fat choice. An 18g multipack bag of Ready Salted contains around 48 calories.
- Walkers Wotsits: The lighter, baked nature of Wotsits means a smaller portion can still provide a cheesy crunch. A multipack bag of Really Cheesy Wotsits typically contains 84 calories.
- Monster Munch: The Pickled Onion and Roast Beef varieties of Monster Munch are also available in sub-100 calorie multipack bags, providing a substantial-looking but lighter snack.
- Hula Hoops Puft: These lighter, puffed versions of the classic hula hoop offer a tasty option with fewer calories. A 15g bag of Salted is approximately 72 calories.
- Popchips: Popped, not fried, Popchips are well-known for their low-calorie profile. A 23g bag of Sour Cream & Onion or Barbeque generally sits around 95-99 calories.
Healthier Alternatives and Popped Snacks
Beyond traditional potato-based products, a range of healthier, low-calorie alternatives are available. These snacks often utilise different ingredients and cooking methods to achieve a lighter profile.
- Baked Crisps: Brands like Walkers offer an 'Oven Baked' range, featuring Cheese & Onion, Salt & Vinegar, and Sea Salt flavours. A 25g bag typically has around 96 calories.
- Properchips Lentil Chips: Made from protein and fibre-rich lentils, these chips offer a hearty crunch for under 100 calories. The Sour Cream & Chive flavour is around 93 calories per 20g bag.
- Hippeas Chickpea Puffs: Made from chickpeas, these puffs are high in fibre and protein. A 22g bag of Salt & Vinegar contains around 91 calories.
- itsu Crispy Seaweed Thins: For a completely different flavour profile, these seaweed snacks are exceptionally low in calories. A 5g pack is only around 20 calories, making them a very light choice.
- Rice Cakes: Simple rice cakes can be an excellent base for a low-calorie snack. Paired with a low-fat topping, they provide a satisfying crunch. Plain varieties like Snack a Jacks are often well under 100 calories per portion.
The Method Behind the Calories: Baked vs. Fried
The cooking process significantly impacts the calorie count of a crisp. Fried crisps are cooked in oil, absorbing a large amount of fat, which dramatically increases their energy content. Baked or popped snacks, however, use much less oil, if any at all. While this generally makes them lower in calories, it's not a universal rule. Some baked crisps can have added sugars and starches to compensate for flavour and texture, so always check the nutrition label. Popped snacks, like Popchips or Popworks, use heat and pressure to create their crunchy texture, resulting in a significantly lower fat and calorie content per gram compared to traditional fried crisps.
Comparison Table: Calories and Portion Size
To help you make an informed choice, here's a side-by-side comparison of different crisp options under 100 calories. Note that these are typical values for standard multipack sizes and may vary slightly by brand or flavour.
| Crisp Brand/Type | Flavour | Approx. Calories | Portion Size | Cooking Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walkers French Fries | Ready Salted | 48 kcal | 18g | Baked/Extruded |
| Hula Hoops Puft | Salted | 72 kcal | 15g | Popped |
| Walkers Quavers | Cheese | 89 kcal | 16g | Baked/Extruded |
| Hippeas Chickpea Puffs | Salt & Vinegar | 91 kcal | 22g | Baked/Puffed |
| Popchips | Sour Cream & Onion | 97 kcal | 23g | Popped |
| Walkers Oven Baked | Sea Salt | 96 kcal | 25g | Baked |
| Properchips | Sour Cream & Chive | 93 kcal | 20g | Popped |
| itisu Crispy Seaweed Thins | Sea Salt | 20 kcal | 5g | Roasted |
How to Choose Your Perfect Low-Calorie Crisp
When selecting a low-calorie crisp, consider not only the calorie count but also the nutritional content. Look for options that offer a source of fibre and protein, such as lentil or chickpea-based products, as these can help you feel fuller for longer. Always check the saturated fat and sodium levels, especially if you have heart health concerns. Lastly, remember that while these are lower-calorie options, moderation is still key. Enjoying them as part of a balanced diet is the best approach to healthier snacking.
Conclusion
For those seeking a crunchy, savoury snack without breaking their calorie budget, the market offers plenty of excellent options. From classic favourites like Quavers and French Fries in portion-controlled packs to innovative popped and baked alternatives from brands like Popchips and Properchips, there's a low-calorie crisp for almost every taste. By understanding the differences in cooking methods and checking the nutritional labels, you can confidently choose a satisfying treat that aligns with your health and wellness goals.
