Why did Chick-fil-A add a pea coating to its waffle fries?
In a move to improve product quality and consistency, Chick-fil-A introduced a change to its popular Waffle Potato Fries recipe in late 2024, which rolled out to restaurants by early 2025. The primary motivation behind this 'slight adjustment' was to enhance the fries' texture, specifically to help them stay crispier for a longer period. By incorporating pea starch into the coating, the fries are less likely to absorb excess oil during the frying process. This leads to a longer-lasting crunch, an improvement that Chick-fil-A likely saw as a benefit for both dine-in and takeout orders.
The customer reaction to the new recipe
The change did not go unnoticed by loyal customers. Social media platforms, particularly Reddit and Instagram, were flooded with a mix of reactions, both positive and negative.
- Flavor and texture feedback: Some customers reported that the new fries were indeed crispier, praising the improved texture. However, a significant number of people voiced disappointment, finding the new version to be dry, stale, or lacking the classic potato flavor they had come to love. One Reddit user noted that the restaurant 'traded flavor for texture'.
- Allergy concerns: The most serious backlash came from families and individuals with pea allergies. Despite Chick-fil-A's assurance that the recipe does not contain the nine major allergens, pea starch is a concern for those with legume sensitivities. Customer comments on social media revealed stories of unexplained sicknesses and allergic reactions, highlighting the danger of such ingredient changes without proper in-store notification. The Kids With Food Allergies Foundation also issued an alert, advising that companies are not required to notify consumers of ingredient changes.
What is pea starch and how is it used?
Pea starch is a white, gluten-free powder derived from yellow peas. It is a versatile ingredient used across the food industry for its thickening and texturizing properties. It is often used in products like glass noodles, gummies, soups, sauces, and baked goods. For Chick-fil-A's fries, the pea starch is an integral component of the coating, helping to create a sturdy, crispy exterior that resists becoming soggy over time. While it is a different compound than pea protein, which is often a more significant allergen, it can still trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.
Comparison: Old Waffle Fries vs. New Waffle Fries
| Feature | Old Recipe Waffle Fries | New Recipe Waffle Fries |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Classic, dependable texture | Enhanced, longer-lasting crispiness |
| Key Ingredient | Standard potato cut | Pea starch added to the coating |
| Texture | Generally softer interior, prone to sogginess over time | Sturdier, crispier exterior, better resistance to becoming soggy |
| Flavor | Traditional potato flavor, beloved by many long-time fans | Described by some as blander, with some customers reporting a noticeable taste change |
| Allergy Profile | No pea ingredients | Contains pea starch, a potential allergen for sensitive individuals |
| Customer Sentiment | Universally positive from long-time fans | Mixed, with praise for crispiness and criticism for flavor and allergen risk |
Other ingredient changes at Chick-fil-A
The introduction of pea starch is not the only recent recipe change to draw attention. In early 2024, Chick-fil-A announced a shift in its chicken policy from "No Antibiotics Ever" (NAE) to "No Antibiotics Important To Human Medicine" (NAIHM). This move was made to maintain the quality and supply of its chicken and also caused a stir among customers concerned about food sourcing and health. These adjustments reflect a wider trend in the fast-food industry of adapting ingredients and sourcing to meet operational demands and customer expectations, which sometimes leads to unintended consequences and controversy.
Conclusion: Understanding the pea coating change
Ultimately, the pea coating at Chick-fil-A is an ingredient change involving pea starch, added to the Waffle Potato Fries to boost their crispiness and longevity. While this may have improved the texture for some, it has created a significant point of contention for others. The primary concerns revolve around a perceived change in flavor and, more importantly, the introduction of a new allergen without clear communication, which poses a serious risk for those with pea sensitivities. This situation underscores the delicate balance fast-food chains must strike when innovating their menu items while managing customer expectations and ensuring food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the Chick-fil-A fries different now?
The fries are different because Chick-fil-A added pea starch to the coating to make them stay crispier for a longer period.
Is the pea coating on Chick-fil-A chicken?
No, the pea coating is only on the Waffle Potato Fries, not the chicken products. The chicken breading uses a different mixture of flours and seasonings.
Does Chick-fil-A use pea protein?
No, Chick-fil-A uses pea starch, which is a gluten-free starch derived from yellow peas. It is different from pea protein, though it can still be an allergen for some.
What are the main ingredients in Chick-fil-A's chicken breading?
The chicken is hand-breaded in a flour mixture that includes seasonings like salt, monosodium glutamate, sugar, and spices, along with a milk and egg wash.
Can people with a pea allergy eat Chick-fil-A fries?
Individuals with a pea allergy should exercise caution and consult a doctor before consuming the new waffle fries, as they now contain pea starch and can pose a risk of allergic reaction.
Did Chick-fil-A change its chicken recipe?
Chick-fil-A did not change its chicken recipe, but it did alter its policy regarding antibiotics used in the chickens it sources in 2024, moving from "No Antibiotics Ever" to a more flexible standard.
Does the new waffle fry recipe contain gluten?
No, pea starch is gluten-free, so the new recipe for the waffle fries is still considered gluten-free.
Why do some people dislike the new fries?
Some customers dislike the new fries because they report a perceived change in flavor, describing them as blander, and a texture that is too crispy and dry compared to the previous version.
Was the addition of pea starch publicly announced by Chick-fil-A?
While Chick-fil-A did update its ingredient information online, many customers were unaware of the change until they noticed a difference in taste or texture, leading to public outcry.
What is the pea starch's role in the fries?
The pea starch in the coating helps the fries stay crispier for longer by minimizing the amount of oil absorbed during the frying process.
