If you have a sweet tooth, you are no doubt familiar with both banana chips and dehydrated bananas.
But have you ever wondered what is the difference between these two delicious banana-based snacks?
How are they actually prepared?
What is the difference in nutritional terms between dehydrated bananas and banana chips?
Do they both taste the same?
Which one is better for you?
So, sit back and relax as I explore the world of banana chips and dehydrated bananas!
Although banana chips and dehydrated bananas are both versions of the dried form of the fruit, they have some differences. Chips are made from thinly sliced bananas that are typically deep-fried in oil and perhaps salted. This gives them a crunch but also means they are high in fat levels. Whereas dehydrated bananas are dried in a dehydrator or an oven to encourage them to lose their moisture content. This makes them chewy with a sweet taste. Dehydrated bananas are the healthier choice as they have less fat.
How Are Banana Chips and Dehydrated Bananas Made?
The main difference between these two popular snacks is the way they are made.
The process starts in the same way, as they both require thinly sliced ripe bananas.
So, let’s take a look at each one.
Starting with banana chips, they have a crispy, crunchy texture.
This is achieved by deep-frying them in oil.
Or occasionally, they are baked, depending on the manufacturer.
Seasonings are then added to the banana chips, such as cinnamon or sugar, or surprisingly, salt!
This makes them both sweet and satisfying.
As regards dehydrated bananas, they are made by drying them in a low-heat oven or using a machine called a dehydrator.
It can actually take a minimum of several hours or even a full day to complete the process.
To some extent, it depends on the thickness of the slices.
Both of these methods remove the water and moisture content from the banana slices.
This gives them a chewy texture, as opposed to crunchy.
Banana chips and dehydrated bananas are typically packaged in bags that hold individual servings to be enjoyed worldwide!
What Are the Nutritional Differences Between the Two?
Now, let’s examine the nutritional differences between banana chips and dehydrated bananas.
Obviously, they both start from the same source, a ripe banana cut into thin slices.
But it’s what happens next that changes their nutritional values.
As explained previously, banana chips are deep-fried in oil.
This increases their calorie count, making it much higher.
In fact, if you compare banana chips with the fresh fruit, the calories are a staggering six times higher!
And it’s even worse when it comes to fat, as banana chips have 100 times more than fresh bananas!
Plus, it’s possible that sugar may be added too.
If you are watching your weight or moderating your sugar, then unfortunately, banana chips are not a healthy option.
In comparison, dehydrated bananas have fewer calories, fat, and sugar.
Importantly, they will also retain some of the essential minerals and vitamins that are found in fresh bananas.
Realistically, they will be a better option than other baked snacks.
If dietary needs are not a concern, then, of course, it will come down to personal preference.
Do you prefer crunchy or chewy?
Dehydrated Banana Chips
My Thoughts
- Banana chips are made from ripe, sliced bananas and deep-fried or baked until crunchy
- Dehydrated bananas are also thinly sliced but then dried to remove their moisture for a chewy result
- Removing the moisture content requires the use of a dehydrator or baking in a low-heat oven
- The method of cooking makes banana chips high in calories and fat, whereas dehydrated bananas have fewer calories and retain some minerals and vitamins
- Ultimately, the choice between banana chips and dehydrated bananas depends on your dietary requirements and personal taste
So, in conclusion, you have hopefully learned that banana chips and dehydrated bananas do have some differences in terms of nutrition, preparation, and texture
I only need to ask you one question; which one will you be choosing for your next banana snack?
And if you don’t fancy bananas, take a look at my article to see if potato chips are a better option.