Lays

Lays Classic earns a middling 3 out of 5 green leaf rating on our cleaner food scale. This snack, while not the worst option available, certainly doesn’t top the charts for health-conscious choices.

The primary ingredients of Lays Classic are potatoes, vegetable oil, and salt. These are simple, straightforward components. However, the lack of organic certification and the use of GMO ingredients detract from its overall appeal for clean eating enthusiasts.

The potatoes, while commonplace in many diets, are not organic. Organic foods are often preferred for their lack of pesticides and other potentially harmful chemicals. The absence of an organic label on Lays Classic is a clear sign of its mainstream, mass-produced origins.

The vegetable oil used in this product is a blend of canola, corn, soybean, and sunflower oil. None of these oils are harmful in moderation, but the inclusion of canola oil is a concern. Canola oil, while a common ingredient in many processed foods, is often heavily refined and can contain trans fats, which are detrimental to heart health.

While the presence of salt is not surprising in a snack food, the sodium content can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues if consumed in excess. It’s important for consumers to monitor their intake of salty foods like Lays Classic.

The inclusion of GMO ingredients is another strike against Lays Classic. GMOs, or genetically modified organisms, are often used in large-scale food production for their resistance to pests and disease. However, there are concerns about the long-term health effects of consuming GMO foods.

Overall, Lays Classic is a middle-of-the-road snack option. Its simple ingredient list is marred by the use of non-organic potatoes, potentially harmful canola oil, and GMO components. While it’s not the worst choice on the market, there are certainly healthier options available.