Samyang Buldak Original Potato Chips

Samyang
Contains seed oils Bioengineered
1 Poor

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Khloud Protein Popcorn Khloud · 1 oz · 18 pack 100 View on Amazon · $49.50 See all Chips & Salty Snacks, ranked

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 8
Harmful ingredients 11
Owned by Samyang Holdings Corp.
Category Chips & Salty Snacks
Summary

This product is an ultra-processed snack with a high level of additives and artificial ingredients. It contains palm oil, which is high in saturated fats, and artificial flavors, which are synthetic compounds with unclear long-term health effects. Additionally, the presence of monosodium glutamate and sucralose further contributes to its low score due to potential health concerns and the high level of processing involved. These are potato chips.

Key ingredients 30

Sunflower Oil
Very Bad

Sunflower oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation when consumed in excess. It is often refined, which can remove beneficial nutrients. The high omega-6 content is a concern for balanced dietary fat intake.

Risks

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

See more about Sunflower Oil →
Palm Oil
Bad

Palm oil is high in saturated fats, which can raise cholesterol levels. It is often criticized for its environmental impact due to deforestation. The oil is refined, which can strip away beneficial nutrients.

Risks

High saturated fat content may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides a stable cooking oil with a long shelf life.

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Sugar
Bad

Refined sugar is associated with various health issues, including obesity and diabetes. It provides empty calories without nutritional benefits. Excessive consumption can lead to metabolic disorders.

Risks

High intake can lead to obesity, insulin resistance, and dental cavities.

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Corn Syrup
Bad

Corn syrup is a sweetener that can contribute to obesity and metabolic syndrome. It is a processed sugar alternative with no nutritional benefits. Often used to enhance sweetness in processed foods.

Risks

May contribute to obesity and insulin resistance when consumed in large amounts.

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Hydrolyzed Soybean Powder
Bad

Hydrolyzed soybean powder is a processed ingredient that can contain MSG, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals. It is used to enhance flavor but is heavily processed. The hydrolysis process breaks down proteins into amino acids.

Risks

May cause headaches or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals due to potential MSG content.

Benefits

Provides amino acids, but benefits are outweighed by processing concerns.

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Artificial Flavors
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals.

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Maltodextrin
Bad

Maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a thickener or filler. It has a high glycemic index and can spike blood sugar levels. It provides no nutritional benefits and is often used in processed foods.

Risks

May cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to insulin resistance.

See more about Maltodextrin →
Monosodium Glutamate
Bad

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer that can cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals. It is a processed additive that enhances umami flavor. Some people report headaches or other symptoms after consuming MSG.

Risks

May cause headaches or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Enhances umami flavor in foods.

See more about Monosodium Glutamate →
Disodium Inosinate
Bad

Disodium inosinate is a flavor enhancer often used in conjunction with MSG. It is a processed additive that enhances umami flavor. It is derived from nucleotides and can cause reactions in sensitive individuals.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals.

Benefits

Enhances umami flavor in foods.

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Disodium Guanylate
Bad

Disodium guanylate is a flavor enhancer often used with MSG to enhance umami flavor. It is a processed additive derived from nucleotides. Can cause reactions in sensitive individuals.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals.

Benefits

Enhances umami flavor in foods.

See more about Disodium Guanylate →
Sucralose
Bad

Sucralose is an artificial sweetener that is much sweeter than sugar and calorie-free. It is a synthetic compound with potential health concerns. Some studies suggest it may affect gut health.

Risks

May affect gut health and cause digestive issues in some individuals.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without calories.

See more about Sucralose →
Dextrin
Neutral

Dextrin is a carbohydrate used as a thickener or filler. It is generally considered neutral as it provides no significant nutritional value. It is derived from starch and is easily digestible.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor but can contribute to high blood pressure if consumed in excess. It is a common seasoning in processed foods. The type of salt used is not specified, so it is assumed to be refined table salt.

Risks

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

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

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Silicon Dioxide
Neutral

Silicon dioxide is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping. It is generally recognized as safe in small amounts. It is a naturally occurring mineral used in many food products.

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Yeast Extract Powder
Neutral

Yeast extract powder is used for its umami flavor and contains naturally occurring glutamates. It is a flavor enhancer derived from yeast. It is less processed than MSG but can still cause reactions in sensitive individuals.

Risks

May cause reactions in individuals sensitive to glutamates.

Benefits

Provides umami flavor and some B vitamins.

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Paprika Color
Neutral

Paprika color is a natural coloring derived from paprika peppers. It is used to enhance the visual appeal of foods. It is generally considered safe and natural.

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Capsicum Oleoresin
Neutral

Capsicum oleoresin is a concentrated extract from chili peppers used for flavor and heat. It is a natural extract but can be potent. Provides capsaicin, which may have health benefits.

Risks

May cause irritation or digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

See more about Capsicum Oleoresin →
Tricalcium Phosphate
Neutral

Tricalcium phosphate is used as an anti-caking agent and calcium supplement. It is generally recognized as safe in small amounts. It provides calcium, but its bioavailability is lower than other forms.

Benefits

Provides calcium, but bioavailability is lower than other forms.

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Habanero Pepper Oleoresin
Neutral

Habanero pepper oleoresin is a concentrated extract used for heat and flavor. It is a natural extract but can be very potent. Contains capsaicin, which may have health benefits.

Risks

May cause irritation or digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

See more about Habanero Pepper Oleoresin →
Steviol Glycosides
Neutral

Steviol glycosides are natural sweeteners derived from the stevia plant. They are calorie-free and do not affect blood sugar levels. Considered safe and natural, they provide a sweet taste without calories.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without calories or impact on blood sugar levels.

See more about Steviol Glycosides →
Xylose
Neutral

Xylose is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener and is less likely to spike blood sugar levels. It is a natural sugar found in wood and some fruits. Provides sweetness with a lower glycemic impact.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in some individuals when consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Provides sweetness with a lower glycemic impact compared to regular sugar.

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Wheat Gluten
Neutral

Wheat gluten is a protein found in wheat and is used to improve texture. It is a natural protein but can cause issues for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Provides protein but is not suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Risks

Can cause adverse reactions in individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Benefits

Provides protein and improves texture in baked goods.

See more about Wheat Gluten →
Potato
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

Provides carbohydrates and some vitamins like vitamin C and B6.

See more about Potato →
Chili Pepper Powder
Good

Chili pepper powder adds flavor and heat, and contains capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting properties. It is a natural spice with potential health benefits. Capsaicin may also have anti-inflammatory effects.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

See more about Chili Pepper Powder →
Tomato Powder
Good

Tomato powder is made from dehydrated tomatoes and retains some of the nutrients found in fresh tomatoes. It is a natural ingredient that adds flavor and color. Contains antioxidants like lycopene, which may support heart health.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which may support heart health.

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Onion Powder
Good

Onion powder is made from dehydrated onions and retains some of the beneficial compounds found in fresh onions. It adds flavor and has potential health benefits. Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

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Spices
Good

Whole-food seasonings, antioxidant-bearing.

Benefits

May provide flavor and some antioxidants depending on the specific spices used.

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Garlic Powder
Good

Garlic powder is made from dehydrated garlic and retains some of the beneficial compounds found in fresh garlic. It adds flavor and has potential health benefits. Contains allicin, which may support heart health and immune function.

Benefits

Contains allicin, which may support heart health and immune function.

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Black Pepper Powder
Good

Black pepper powder is a natural spice that adds flavor and may aid digestion. It contains piperine, which can enhance nutrient absorption. It is a common spice with potential health benefits.

Benefits

Contains piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption and aid digestion.

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Sesame Oil
Good

Sesame oil is a natural oil rich in antioxidants and healthy fats. It is used for flavor and has potential health benefits. Contains sesamol and sesamin, which may support heart health.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and healthy fats that may support heart health.

See more about Sesame Oil →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Amazon pricing & content

Amazon price for Khloud Protein Popcorn as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

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Samyang Buldak Original Potato Chips

Common questions

Is Samyang Buldak Original Potato Chips healthy?

Samyang Buldak Original 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 an ultra-processed snack with a high level of additives and artificial ingredients.

Does Samyang Buldak Original Potato Chips contain seed oils?

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

How processed is Samyang Buldak Original Potato Chips?

Samyang Buldak Original Potato Chips is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

How does Samyang Buldak Original Potato Chips compare to other chips & salty snacks?

Samyang Buldak Original Potato Chips ranks #122 of 129 chips & salty snacks in Scout's independent rankings. The current top score in the category is Khloud Protein Popcorn at 100/100.

Which ingredients drive Samyang Buldak Original Potato Chips' score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Potato, Chili Pepper Powder, Tomato Powder count in its favor; Palm Oil, Sugar, Corn Syrup are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

Healthy alternatives

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