Buying crisps: how to choose the right potato crisps for your occasion

Buying crisps might seem straightforward, until you have to choose from dozens of flavours, sizes and cooking methods. Are you looking for salted crisps for a drinks party, spicy crisps for a film night, or a variety that fits a vegan or gluten-free diet? The packaging doesn't always tell the full story.

When comparing, watch out for three common pitfalls:

• A flashy flavour name says nothing about the ingredients. Crisps with lime, for example, can contain wheat, soya, milk derivatives or sweeteners.
• "Baked" doesn't automatically mean light or low in salt. Always check the nutritional values per 100 grams.
• A big bag isn't always better value. Party-sized crisps only remain attractively priced if the contents, number of servings and shelf life match how you'll use them.

What to look for when buying crisps

1. Check the ingredients and allergens

The ingredients list matters more than the front of the bag. If you have an allergy or intolerance, check the bold allergens and any warning about possible cross-contamination. Some varieties list gluten, milk, soya, mustard or celery among their ingredients.

A product labelled as vegan crisps should still be checked against the current packaging. According to the product information, Farmhouse Biscuits Sea Salt Chips list potatoes, sunflower oil and salt as ingredients and are described as vegan and gluten-free. Always check the product page and label with every order, as recipes can change.

2. Compare nutritional values per 100 grams

Portion sizes vary. That's why the values per 100 grams are the most useful. Pay particular attention to:

• Fat and saturated fat in fried potato crisps;
• Salt, especially in salted crisps and heavily seasoned varieties;
• Energy, when comparing different bag sizes;
• Sugars, which can add up in flavoured varieties.

Chio Oven Chips Sea Salt list 9.2 grams of fat per 100 grams and a Nutri-Score D, according to the product description. The same description states that these crisps are oven-baked and contain 60% less fat than standard potato crisps. That's a claim from the brand's product information; always compare it with the full nutritional table on the packaging.

3. Choose size and texture based on how you'll use them

For one person, a 62g, 70g or 90g bag can be practical. For a birthday, drinks party or film night with several people, bags of 135g to 200g make more sense. Also consider the texture:

• Thin crisps suit light snacking and classic flavours;
• Ridge-cut crisps are thicker and have more texture;
• Baked crisps are cooked in the oven rather than fried;
• A resealable tube like Pringles crisps helps keep the contents fresh between sessions, but doesn't replace proper dry storage.

Store crisps in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and seal an opened pack tightly. This helps keep them crunchy for longer.

Product picks for different snacking occasions

Best for: Budget-conscious beginners

Farmhouse Biscuits Sea Salt Chips - 150 g

Why it fits the profile: A straightforward choice for anyone looking for simple sea salt crisps who wants to see exactly what's in them. The 150g bag works well for snacking at home or sharing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists only potatoes, high-oleic sunflower oil and salt. This makes the basics easy to check. Always verify the current packaging for allergens and claims.

Key benefit & highlights

150g, ridge-cut option available, and described as vegan and gluten-free according to the product information.

Best for: Shoppers seeking top quality

Pringles Sour Cream & Onion - 165 g

Why it fits the profile: Ideal for anyone after a recognisable shape, even texture and a bold flavour for a film night or drinks party.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging is resealable, so you don't have to serve the whole contents at once. The ingredients list does mention gluten and milk.

Key benefit & highlights

165g, resealable tube and a clearly stated flavour profile of sour cream and onion.

Best for: Specific use & frequent snackers

Chio Oven Chips Sea Salt - 125 g

Why it fits the profile: A practical choice for anyone actively looking for baked crisps rather than traditional fried ones, without giving up a salty flavour entirely.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The cooking method and nutritional values are clearly described. The product information states 9.2g of fat and 1.5g of salt per 100g; the salt content still deserves attention.

Key benefit & highlights

125g, oven-baked and described as vegetarian according to the product description.

Best for: Fans of zesty flavours

Lay's Lime Flavor Potato Crisps, 90g Pack

Why it fits the profile: Suits anyone looking for a fresh, slightly tangy snack beyond standard crisps, whether eating alone or sharing in small groups.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists wheat and soya as allergens. This means you can rule out this variety if you're avoiding those ingredients.

Key benefit & highlights

90g, crunchy potato crisps and a lime profile with a citrus twist.

Frequently asked questions about buying crisps

Which crisps are suitable for a party?

Choose several flavours and sizes, for example a 150g to 200g bag for sharing and a smaller bag for guests with a specific preference. Ridge-cut crisps, salted crisps and Lay's crisps pair easily with dips. When offering a mixed selection, always check the allergens on each pack.

Are baked crisps automatically a healthier choice?

Not automatically. Baked crisps are made differently and may contain less fat according to the packaging, but the overall nutritional profile varies from product to product. Compare fat, salt, energy and portion size per 100 grams. A brand's product claim is no substitute for the full label.

How should you store opened potato crisps?

Keep the packaging tightly sealed in a dry, cool place away from heat and direct sunlight. Eat opened crisps as soon as possible. With Pringles crisps, the tube helps reseal the contents; with bags, you can roll the opening closed or use a clip.