Lays Stax Original Stax Potato Chips

Common questions

Is Lays Stax Original Stax Potato Chips healthy?

Lays Stax Original Stax Potato Chips scores 1/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the lower scores in Scout's catalog. This product is highly processed and contains multiple industrial seed oils, which are associated with negative health effects due to their high omega-6 fatty acid content.

Does Lays Stax Original Stax Potato Chips contain seed oils?

Yes — Scout's ingredient analysis flags seed oils in Lays Stax Original Stax Potato Chips, and that is reflected in its score.

How processed is Lays Stax Original Stax Potato Chips?

Lays Stax Original Stax Potato Chips is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

How does Lays Stax Original Stax Potato Chips compare to other salty snacks?

Lays Stax Original Stax Potato Chips ranks #113 of 118 salty snacks in Scout's independent rankings. The current top score in the category is Jesse & Ben's House-Cut Fries Tallow & Sea Salt at 93/100.

Which ingredients drive Lays Stax Original Stax Potato Chips's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Vegetable Oil, Mono- and Diglycerides, Sugar Dextrose are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Lays Stax Original Stax Potato Chips

Lay's
Contains seed oils
1 Poor

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 4
Owned by PepsiCo
Category Salty Snacks
Summary

This product is highly processed and contains multiple industrial seed oils, which are associated with negative health effects due to their high omega-6 fatty acid content. The use of emulsifiers and added sugars further contributes to its ultra-processed nature, making it less desirable from a nutritional standpoint. The combination of these factors places it in the lower range for packaged snacks.

Key ingredients 8

Vegetable Oil
Very Bad

Vegetable oils like cottonseed, sunflower, and corn oil are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation. These oils are often extracted using high heat and chemicals, which can degrade their nutritional quality. They are considered unhealthy due to their processing methods and potential to disrupt the omega-3 to omega-6 balance.

Risks

High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.

See more about Vegetable Oil →
Mono- and Diglycerides
Bad

Mono- and diglycerides are emulsifiers used to improve texture and shelf life. They are often derived from seed oils and can contain trans fats. Their use in processed foods is associated with potential health concerns related to trans fat consumption.

Risks

May contain trans fats, which are linked to increased risk of heart disease.

See more about Mono- and Diglycerides →
Sugar Dextrose
Bad

Dextrose is a simple sugar used to enhance sweetness and flavor. It is rapidly absorbed, leading to quick spikes in blood sugar levels. Its use in processed foods contributes to added sugar intake, which is linked to various health issues.

Risks

Can contribute to obesity, insulin resistance, and other metabolic disorders when consumed in excess.

See more about Sugar Dextrose →
Soy Lecithin
Bad

Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, used to stabilize and improve texture. It is a processed ingredient and may contain traces of soy allergens. While it is generally recognized as safe, its processing and potential allergenicity are concerns.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to soy.

See more about Soy Lecithin →
Dried Potatoes
Neutral

Dried potatoes are a processed form of potatoes used as a base for chips. They provide carbohydrates and some fiber but lack the nutrients found in fresh potatoes. The drying process reduces water content, making them suitable for long shelf life.

Benefits

Provides carbohydrates and some dietary fiber, contributing to energy intake.

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Unmodified Potato Starch
Neutral

Unmodified potato starch is used as a thickening agent and provides a source of carbohydrates. It is minimally processed compared to modified starches. It does not offer significant nutritional benefits beyond energy.

Benefits

Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy.

See more about Unmodified Potato Starch →
Rice Flour
Neutral

Rice flour is a gluten-free flour alternative used to add texture and bulk. It is a source of carbohydrates but lacks significant protein or fiber. It is often used in processed foods for its neutral flavor and texture.

Benefits

Provides carbohydrates and is gluten-free, suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a necessary nutrient but can contribute to high blood pressure if consumed in excess. In processed foods, it is often used in large quantities to enhance taste.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Provides essential sodium needed for various bodily functions.

See more about Salt →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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