Choosing potato crisps: how to find the right flavour and pack

Buying potato crisps seems simple, until you have to choose from dozens of flavours, pack sizes and brands. Whether you’re looking for Pringles, Lay’s crisps, spicy crisps or international potato snacks, eye-catching packaging and flavour names can hide the practical differences.

Watch out for these three common pitfalls:

1. A larger pack isn’t always better value. Compare the price per 100 g and check how many portions the pack contains.
2. A flavour name doesn’t tell you everything. “Chilli”, “cheese” or “sweet chilli” can be mild or strong. Check the ingredients and seasoning mix for a more realistic idea of what to expect.
3. A resealable pack won’t prevent quality from deteriorating indefinitely. A tub or bag can help keep crisps crunchy, but seal the pack properly after opening and store the crisps somewhere dry and out of direct sunlight.

What should you look for when choosing potato crisps?

1. Flavour profile and ingredients

First, choose a flavour that suits the occasion:

• Spicy crisps: for example, with chilli, cayenne pepper or Sichuan pepper. The intensity varies from product to product.
• Cheese crisps: check whether they contain milk, lactose, whey or cheese powder.
• Chilli crisps: the flavour can be sweet, sour, smoky or fiery.
• Salt and vinegar crisps: known for their salty, tangy flavour; the seasoning mix may also contain milk or gluten allergens.
• International crisps: unusual flavours such as wasabi nori, cucumber, honey butter or pesto can be worth trying if you’re looking beyond the usual paprika and plain varieties.

The ingredients list is more important than the front of the pack. Pay particular attention to allergens, such as gluten, milk, soya, celery, mustard and sulphites. Recipes and labelling can vary between international products, so always check the product packaging for the latest information.

2. Packaging and occasion

A larger pack can be handy for a film night or party. A multipack of crisps with smaller bags is better suited to lunchboxes, the office or occasions when everyone wants to open their own portion.

A tub such as Pringles protects the stacked crisps and is described as resealable. A bag is often easier to share between several people, but once opened it can absorb moisture more quickly if it isn’t sealed properly.

Look out for:

• Single pack: suitable for trying one flavour.
• Multipack: practical for parties, families and stocking up.
• Small portions: handy for on the go or for sharing out controlled portions.
• Large bag or tub: suitable for sharing, but check the net weight.

3. Nutritional information per 100 g

Always compare nutritional information per 100 g, not just per bag or tub. For example, the product specifications for the selected potato crisps show energy values of around 489 to 558 kcal per 100 g. Salt content also varies considerably.

As well as energy, check:

• Fat and saturates
• Carbohydrates and sugars
• Salt
• Portion size
• Net weight

A smaller pack doesn’t automatically mean the product has a different nutritional composition per 100 g. Portion sizes are mainly useful for keeping track of the total amount you eat.

Our recommendations for different types of shopper

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Lay's Patatje Joppie Potato Chips - 200 g

Why it suits this profile: A familiar Dutch flavour in a 200 g pack, suitable for enjoying at home or sharing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The net weight and nutritional information are clearly stated. According to the product description, this variety contains 0.61 g of salt per 100 g and is listed as containing 6 to 7 portions of 30 g.

Main benefit & highlights

200 g pack, packed in a protective atmosphere, with a flavour profile featuring onion, garlic and herbs. Contains mustard.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality

Pringles Salt & Vinegar Crisps - 165 g

Why it suits this profile: The familiar shape and resealable tub make these crisps a good choice for drinks, parties and occasions when you want to serve them again later.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The pack is resealable, but still check the seal after opening and store the tub somewhere dry. The ingredients include gluten and milk.

Main benefit & highlights

165 g pack, resealable packaging and a distinctive salt and vinegar flavour. The product description lists 1.7 g of salt per 100 g.

Suitable for: Specific occasions & frequent snackers

Pringles Hot & Spicy Crunchy Chips - 12 x 40 g

Why it suits this profile: Twelve individual 40 g packs are handy for parties, student houses, lunchboxes and snacking on the go.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The portions are pre-divided, so you don’t have to keep opening a large bag. The product description mentions chilli and savoury seasoning; the exact level of heat is a matter of personal taste.

Main benefit & highlights

12 x 40 g packs, easy to share and, according to the product information, free from the 14 major EU allergens. Check the current label before buying.

Suitable for: Fans of international flavours

Koikeya Potechi Belgium Potato Chips - Wasabi Nori 100g

Why it suits this profile: Wasabi and seaweed offer a different flavour profile from traditional cheese, paprika or salted varieties.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The flavour is clearly described as wasabi and seaweed. The ingredients include wheat and soya; check the packaging if you have allergies.

Main benefit & highlights

100 g pack, familiar potato slices and a seasoning made with wasabi powder, seaweed, garlic and onion.

Frequently asked questions about potato crisps

Which potato crisps are good for a party?

Choose a larger bag or tub if everyone is happy to share the same flavour. If people have different preferences, a multipack of crisps is more practical. Small bags also mean you won’t need to open a large pack as often.

How should you store potato crisps after opening?

Store crisps in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Seal a bag as well as you can, or use the closure on a resealable tub. Moisture is a major cause of crisps losing their crunch. Always check the storage advice on the packaging too.

Are international crisps suitable for people with allergies?

It depends on the ingredients and the current labelling. International crisps may contain milk, gluten, soya, celery, mustard or other allergens. So, before buying, read the full ingredients list and allergen information. If in doubt, don’t rely on the product photo or flavour name alone.