I have to admit that this question is not very clear.
Am I talking about if banana chips taste better, or are they healthier or easier to make?
After all, they are both popular, crunchy snacks with a lovely hit of flavor!
What is the nutritional value of both types of chips?
What exactly is the process for making banana chips and potato chips?
Can you use banana chips instead of potato chips?
Is either of them vegan or gluten-free?
How long do both types of chips last?
Well, maybe I should cover several topics to answer the banana chips vs. potato chips conundrum!
In nutritional terms, if banana chips are fried they are no healthier than potato chips. However, as a fruit product, they do contain minerals and vitamins, including potassium, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. Banana chips are generally lower in calories and fat than potato chips. But any benefits are lost if the banana chips are fried or baked with added salt or sugar. If the bananas are sliced thinly and simply dehydrated, without the use of oil or sugar, they are a better option than potato chips. Unfortunately, many commercially sold banana chips have high sugar content and are not a healthy snack.
Are Banana Chips Healthier Than Potato Chips?
Now, you are not going to like my answer to this question because it depends!
At face value, you are going to assume that because bananas are fresh fruit, that automatically makes them healthier.
But unfortunately, when they are mass-produced, the chips are likely to have been fried in oil.
And probably have added salt or sugar.
So, in that respect, they are not a healthy snack.
They do have an advantage over potato chips in that they don’t have to be fried or baked, they can simply be dehydrated.
So, if they are thinly sliced and dehydrated with no oil, salt, or sugar, they are definitely healthier than potato chips.
After all, nobody wants dehydrated potatoes!
Potatoes have to be sliced, then deep-fried or baked, which makes them high in calories and fat, and usually have added salt.
Both banana chips and potato chips have similar nutrients in terms of vitamins and minerals.
These include potassium and vitamin C, with bananas also containing vitamin B6.
The potassium can help maintain healthy blood pressure.
If the banana chips and the potato chips are cooked by the same method, then they have a similar number of calories.
And those calories are quite high, so both types of chips should be eaten in moderation, and of course, as part of a balanced diet.
At the end of the day, it’s down to personal preference as to whether you prefer the sweetness of banana chips or the savory flavor of potato chips.
What Is the Process of Making Banana or Potato Chips?
There are two methods of making banana chips, whether commercially or at home.
The healthiest process is to thinly slice fresh bananas and then dehydrate them.
Otherwise, they are typically deep-fried in oil or baked.
Extra flavorings can be added according to your taste, such as cinnamon, honey, or sweet spices.
Potato chips need to be cooked, not dehydrated, and deep frying is usually the typical method.
The flavor can be enhanced with salt, herbs, and spices.
Both types of chips can last for two to three weeks at room temperature in an airtight container.
Banana chips can also be kept in the fridge or freezer, which will extend their life.
If you are following a vegan lifestyle, then banana chips are fine, as they are only made with plant-based ingredients.
But you have to be careful with commercially produced potato chips.
Some flavors have dairy additives, so always read the label.
It’s a similar story with a gluten-free diet, banana chips will not cause any problems.
However, with the potato variety, the flavored seasonings may have been coated with wheat flour to help them stick to the chips.
Always consult your health provider if you have any concerns.
Are Banana Chips a Healthy Snack?
My Thoughts
- Banana chips can be made by dehydration or deep frying, while potato chips can only be cooked by frying or baking
- Both types of chips are relatively high in fat and calories
- Banana and potato chips are both a good source of potassium, minerals, and vitamins
- Potato chips can be flavored with seasonings, herbs, and salt, while banana chips are typically just seasoned with honey or cinnamon
- It’s your choice as to whether you prefer the sweet banana chips or the savory taste of potato chips
I hope this article has helped you come to a decision as to whether you prefer banana or potato chips!
If you are concerned about your health, you can also read about whether red bananas are better for you.