Which Potato Chips Are Fried in Peanut Oil?

According to the National Peanut Board, highly refined peanut oil is exempt from allergen labeling because the proteins that trigger allergic reactions are removed during processing. Despite this, many people with peanut allergies or those seeking a distinct flavor still wonder which potato chips are fried in peanut oil. This article provides a detailed overview of brands that use or have used peanut oil, along with important information about allergen safety.

Quick Summary

This guide lists brands that cook or have cooked their potato chips in peanut oil, explaining the difference between refined and unrefined oil regarding allergies and flavor. It provides a helpful table and answers frequently asked questions for safe and informed snacking.

Key Points

• Alaska Chip Company: Alaska Chip Company is one brand known for cooking its potato chips exclusively in 100% peanut oil.

• Refined vs. Unrefined Oil: Most commercial chips use highly refined peanut oil, which is processed to remove allergens and is generally safe for those with peanut allergies. Unrefined oil is more likely to trigger a reaction.

• Always Check the Label: Brands like Dirty Potato Chips and Utz Kettle Classics sometimes use peanut oil in a blend, so reading the ingredient list is crucial for verification.

• Formulations Change: A brand's oil may change over time due to ingredient shortages or other factors, so it's best to check the manufacturer's website for the most current information, as exemplified by Route 11 Potato Chips.

• Consider Cross-Contamination: Despite the safety of refined oil, individuals with severe peanut allergies should be aware of potential cross-contamination risks in shared manufacturing facilities.

• Distinct Flavor Profile: Chips fried in peanut oil often possess a unique, robust flavor and satisfyingly crunchy texture compared to those made with other vegetable oils.

Brands That Use Peanut Oil in Their Potato Chips

Identifying potato chips made with peanut oil can be challenging, as some brands change their formulations or use different oil blends depending on availability. However, several brands are known for using peanut oil, either exclusively or as part of a blend, for the unique flavor and texture it provides.

Alaska Chip Company

*Alaska Chip Company chips are explicitly made with 100% peanut oil. Sourced from Alaska-grown potatoes, these chips are kettle-cooked in small batches, resulting in a thick, crunchy texture and a richer flavor profile compared to chips fried in other oils. Their commitment to this process and the use of natural ingredients makes them a favorite among those who specifically seek out peanut oil-fried chips.

Mikesell's Groovy Peanut Oil Potato Chips

*For years, Mikesell's has offered a specific line of chips, the "Groovy Peanut Oil Potato Chips," which are, as the name suggests, fried in peanut oil. These are often found in specific regional markets and are sought after for their distinctive taste and texture. It's crucial for consumers to check the specific product label, as Mikesell's offers other chips not cooked in peanut oil.

Dirty Potato Chips

*Dirty Potato Chips frequently use peanut oil, or a blend containing peanut oil, for their kettle-cooked products. The brand's commitment to creating a 'dirty' (meaning, with the potato skin left on) and ruggedly crunchy chip is complemented by the use of peanut oil, which contributes to the robust flavor. The exact blend can vary, so reading the ingredient list is always the safest practice.

Utz Kettle Classics

*While not exclusively fried in peanut oil, some varieties of Utz Kettle Classics may contain a blend that includes peanut oil. The ingredient label typically specifies if peanut oil, corn oil, cottonseed oil, or sunflower oil is used. This offers a broader option for consumers, but requires careful inspection for those avoiding peanut oil.

Refined vs. Unrefined Peanut Oil and Allergies

When considering chips fried in peanut oil, the distinction between refined and unrefined oil is crucial, especially for individuals with peanut allergies.

Refined Peanut Oil

*Highly refined peanut oil undergoes a process that removes the allergenic proteins. As a result, the FDA does not require highly refined peanut oil to be labeled as a major allergen. Most people with peanut allergies can safely consume products made with highly refined peanut oil, and it is the type typically used for high-heat frying in commercial chip production.

Unrefined Peanut Oil

*Unrefined (or cold-pressed) peanut oil is less processed and retains peanut proteins. This type of oil should be avoided by individuals with peanut allergies, as it poses a significant risk of causing an allergic reaction. Unrefined peanut oil is more often used in gourmet applications or for flavoring rather than for large-scale frying.

Cross-Contamination Risks

*While the refining process removes most allergenic proteins, there is still a small risk of cross-contamination if a product is manufactured in a facility that also handles whole peanuts or uses unrefined peanut oil. This is a key reason why some people with severe peanut allergies choose to avoid all products listing peanut oil, regardless of its refinement status.

Comparison of Peanut Oil-Fried Chips

Brand	Oil Type	Texture	Flavor Profile	Allergen Info	Notes
Alaska Chip Company	100% Peanut Oil	Thick, Crunchy, Kettle-Cooked	Rich, Distinctive	Uses 100% peanut oil	Focused on natural ingredients and batch cooking.
Dirty Potato Chips	Peanut Oil or Blend	Kettle-Cooked, Rugged	Savory, Robust	Uses peanut oil blend	Check specific flavor ingredient list.
Mikesell's	Peanut Oil (specific variety)	'Groovy' wavy cut	Distinctive, classic	Uses peanut oil (specific variety)	Only their designated 'Peanut Oil' chips.
Utz Kettle Classics	Blend (may contain peanut oil)	Kettle-Cooked	Varies by flavor	May contain peanut oil blend	Always read ingredient label.

How to Determine if a Chip is Fried in Peanut Oil

1. Read the Ingredient List: The most reliable method is to check the ingredient list on the back of the bag. Peanut oil, or a blend including it, will be listed clearly.
2. Look for Allergy Statements: Packaging often includes statements regarding common allergens. While highly refined peanut oil is exempt from labeling as a major allergen, some manufacturers provide additional warnings about shared equipment.
3. Visit the Manufacturer's Website: Many companies, especially smaller, artisan brands, provide detailed allergen information on their websites. This is also where you'll find the most up-to-date information on any recent oil changes, as seen with Route 11 Potato Chips, which switched away from peanut oil in 2022.
4. Contact Customer Service: For absolute certainty, particularly with smaller or regional brands, contacting the manufacturer directly can provide clarity.

Why Peanut Oil for Chips?

Peanut oil offers several benefits that make it an attractive choice for frying potato chips:

• High Smoke Point: Refined peanut oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for the high-temperature frying process required to produce crispy, golden potato chips.
• Neutral Flavor: While unrefined peanut oil has a strong flavor, highly refined peanut oil is quite neutral, allowing the natural potato and seasoning flavors to shine.
• Texture: Frying in peanut oil can result in a distinctively crunchy texture that many chip enthusiasts appreciate.
• Health Perception: Although it's fried, some consumers perceive certain vegetable oils, including peanut oil, more favorably than others.

Conclusion

For those seeking potato chips fried in peanut oil, brands like Alaska Chip Company, specific varieties of Mikesell's, and Dirty Potato Chips are reliable options. However, product formulations can change, so always check the ingredient label before purchasing. If you have a peanut allergy, it is important to distinguish between highly refined and unrefined peanut oil and to be mindful of potential cross-contamination risks. Ultimately, staying informed and checking packaging is the best way to ensure you're getting the chips you want.

What to Look For on Labels

• Explicit mentions: The ingredient list clearly states "peanut oil."
• Oil blends: Look for phrases like "cooked in peanut oil or a blend of..."
• Allergen statements: Check for specific warnings about manufacturing facilities.
• Brand confirmation: Verify on the brand's website for the latest ingredient information.

Visit the National Peanut Board's website for more information on the processing of peanut oil and allergies.

Important Considerations for Allergies

• Refined vs. Unrefined: Remember that highly refined peanut oil is generally safe for those with peanut allergies, while unrefined oil is not.
• Personal Risk Assessment: Despite the low risk associated with refined oil, individuals with severe allergies may choose to avoid all products containing peanut oil as a precaution.
• Cross-Contamination: The risk of cross-contamination in shared manufacturing facilities is a legitimate concern for those with allergies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are highly refined peanut oil and unrefined peanut oil the same for those with allergies?

No, they are different. Highly refined peanut oil has undergone a process that removes the allergenic proteins and is generally safe for people with peanut allergies. Unrefined peanut oil still contains these proteins and should be avoided by those with allergies.

Do Lay's potato chips use peanut oil?

Lay's chips typically do not use peanut oil. The ingredients list usually specifies oils like corn, cottonseed, or sunflower oil. Always check the specific bag for the most accurate ingredient information.

Is it true that Five Guys fries are cooked in peanut oil?

Yes, Five Guys cooks their french fries exclusively in refined peanut oil. However, this article focuses specifically on packaged potato chips, which can be different.

Can people with severe peanut allergies eat chips fried in refined peanut oil?

While most allergists and official bodies like the FDA state that highly refined peanut oil is safe, individuals with severe allergies may still choose to avoid it due to the potential for trace cross-contamination. Consult a doctor for personalized advice.

How can I tell if a brand has changed its frying oil?

To get the most current information on a brand's frying oil, the best practice is to check their official website. Some companies, like Route 11, post specific allergen and ingredient updates.

Why do some people prefer peanut oil-fried chips?

Peanut oil has a high smoke point, which contributes to a very crispy texture. It also imparts a subtle, distinctive flavor that many snack enthusiasts prefer over chips fried in more common vegetable oils.

Are Mikesell's chips always made with peanut oil?

No, only Mikesell's specific 'Groovy Peanut Oil' variety is advertised as being cooked in peanut oil. Other varieties from the brand use different oils, so checking the label is important.