CAPE COD Original Kettle Cooked Potato Chips receive a FoodScore of 75/100 (Very good), primarily driven by its **simple ingredient profile** and **healthy fat composition**.
This product scores 75/100, indicating a very good nutritional profile for a snack.
A key strength is its simple ingredient list and healthy fat profile, contributing +10 to its score.
The main nutritional concern is its sodium content at 392.86mg per 100g.
Compared to air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, this is a more processed option.
Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet, mindful of portion sizes.
Scores +26 points above the snack category average (49/100 across 108 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
392.86mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Vitamin C)+2
Healthy fat profile+10
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Sodium (392.9mg)-1
Why it scores 75
CAPE COD Original Kettle Cooked Potato Chips achieve a FoodScore of 75 out of 100, placing them in the 'Very good' category for a snack. This score is significantly influenced by several positive factors. The product receives a substantial bonus of +10 points for its healthy fat profile, with only 1.79g of saturated fat per 100g and no trans fat. It also gains +8 points for being minimally processed (NOVA 2), featuring a short ingredient list of potatoes, canola oil, and salt. Further bonuses include +3 points for its 3.61g of fiber, +3 points for 7.14g of protein, and +2 points for its vitamin C content (24% DV). The only penalty applied is -1 point for its sodium content of 392.86mg per 100g. While a snack, it offers more nutritional value than many highly processed alternatives, though it does not provide the same micronutrient density as the baseline of raw vegetables with hummus.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cape cod original kettle cooked potato chips actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Vitamin C
CAPE COD Original Kettle Cooked Potato Chips offer 24% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C per 100g. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage. While not a primary source of vitamins, these chips contribute to your daily intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. This nutrient is naturally present in potatoes, which are the primary ingredient in this product.
Contains Dietary Fiber
With 3.61g of dietary fiber per 100g, these chips contribute to your daily fiber intake. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it is a notable contribution for a snack food. Including fiber in your diet can also help promote feelings of fullness, which may assist with portion control.
Features a Favorable Fat Profile
The fat content in CAPE COD Original Kettle Cooked Potato Chips is primarily from canola oil, which is a source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These types of fats are generally considered healthier options compared to saturated and trans fats. The product contains only 1.79g of saturated fat per 100g and no trans fat, aligning with dietary recommendations to limit these less healthy fat types. This contributes to the product's overall positive nutritional assessment.
CAPE COD Original Kettle Cooked Potato Chips receive a FoodScore of 75/100 (Very good), primarily driven by its simple ingredient profile and healthy fat composition.
How to eat it
Potato chips are typically consumed as a standalone snack or as a side dish with meals like sandwiches or burgers. A common portion size is around 1 ounce (28g), which is about 15-20 chips. The main pitfall is overconsumption due to their palatability and crunch.
Pair with a source of lean protein or vegetables, such as a small handful with a turkey sandwich or a side salad, to create a more balanced meal.
Measure out a single serving into a bowl to help with portion control and avoid eating directly from the bag.
Consider crushing a few chips as a topping for salads or baked potatoes to add texture and flavor without consuming a large quantity.
Alternate with whole food snacks like fruit, nuts, or raw vegetables to ensure a diverse nutrient intake throughout the day.
Things to keep in mind
CAPE COD Original Kettle Cooked Potato Chips are generally well-tolerated by most individuals. The ingredient list is minimal: potatoes, canola oil, and salt. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, nor are there any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives that might be a concern for sensitive individuals. The primary caution for this product is its sodium content. While not excessively high, individuals monitoring their sodium intake for conditions like hypertension should be mindful of portion sizes. Otherwise, this product does not present unique cautions beyond those associated with typical snack foods.
Is CAPE COD Original Kettle Cooked Potato Chips healthy?
With a FoodScore of 75/100, CAPE COD Original Kettle Cooked Potato Chips are considered 'Very good' for a snack food. They offer some fiber and protein, and a favorable fat profile due to canola oil. While not a nutrient-dense food like fruits or vegetables, their simple ingredient list and lack of added sugars contribute to a relatively positive nutritional assessment within their category.
How does CAPE COD compare to other potato chip brands?
Compared to many other potato chip brands, such as Lay's Classic Potato Chips, CAPE COD Original Kettle Cooked Potato Chips generally have a similar nutritional profile in terms of calories and fat, but may differ in sodium or specific oil used. The 'kettle cooked' method often results in a slightly thicker, crunchier chip. Always compare the specific nutrition facts panel for the most accurate comparison.
What is 'kettle cooked' and does it affect nutrition?
'Kettle cooked' refers to a batch-frying process where potato slices are cooked in smaller batches at lower temperatures, resulting in a distinctive crunch and texture. While it primarily affects the texture and flavor, it doesn't inherently make the chips more or less nutritious than conventionally fried chips. The nutritional value is more dependent on the type of oil used and the sodium content.
How many CAPE COD chips can I eat in a day?
A standard serving size for CAPE COD Original Kettle Cooked Potato Chips is 28g, which provides 150 calories. For most adults, enjoying one serving as an occasional snack can fit into a balanced diet. Consuming multiple servings daily would significantly increase your intake of calories, fat, and sodium, potentially exceeding recommended daily limits for these nutrients.
Are these chips gluten-free?
The ingredient list for CAPE COD Original Kettle Cooked Potato Chips (potatoes, canola oil, and salt) does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. However, for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, it is always recommended to look for a certified gluten-free label on the package to ensure there has been no cross-contamination during processing.