Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. For people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can cause negative health effects like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and fatigue. Because of this, it’s important for people who need to avoid gluten to know which foods contain it.
Kettle Brand potato chips are a popular snack food. With their array of classic and unique flavors, Kettle Chips have developed a devoted following. But an important question for those managing gluten intake is: Are Kettle Chips gluten-free?
The Short Answer
Yes, original Kettle Chips are certified gluten-free to less than 10 parts per million. This very low level of gluten means they are safe for most people who need to avoid gluten for medical reasons.
Some flavored Kettle Chips also qualify as gluten-free, but some seasonings contain gluten. It’s important to check labels and contact the company about specific flavors if gluten is a concern.
Ingredients in Original Kettle Chips
To understand if a food contains gluten, you need to look at the ingredients. Here are the ingredients for original salted Kettle Chips:
- Potatoes
- Sunflower oil
- Sea salt
None of these ingredients contain gluten. Potatoes, vegetables oils and salt are naturally gluten-free. This means original Kettle Chips should be safe for gluten-free diets.
Certified Gluten-Free
In addition to having gluten-free ingredients, Kettle Chips takes steps to avoid cross-contamination during manufacturing and earns independent certification:
- Kettle Chips are processed in a dedicated gluten-free facility.
- The company follows stringent sanitation protocols.
- Kettle Chips are certified gluten-free to less than 10 ppm by GFCO (Gluten Free Certification Organization).
Earning GFCO certification means Kettle Chips have been rigorously tested to confirm the finished products contain less than 10 ppm of gluten. This is far below the FDA’s limit of 20 ppm for items labeled “gluten-free.”
Some Flavored Chips May Contain Gluten
While original Kettle Chips are gluten-free, some flavored varieties may contain gluten. The potato chips themselves are gluten-free, but flavorings and seasonings could add gluten.
Potential sources of gluten include:
- Maltodextrin
- Wheat starch
- Barley malt
- Soy sauce
- Flavors that use gluten-containing grains
Kettle Brand reports that their salt and pepper and jalapeno chips are also gluten-free to less than 10 ppm. However, at this time not all flavored chips carry the GFCO certification.
If you need to avoid gluten due to celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, it’s important to thoroughly check the label of each flavored variety or contact the company before consuming.
Best Ways to Check for Gluten
Here are tips for assessing whether a particular variety of Kettle Chips is gluten-free:
- Read the ingredient list and look for any questionable ingredients like maltodextrin, soy sauce, etc.
- Look for a “gluten-free” label, ideally accompanied by a respected third-party certification like GFCO.
- Check the company’s website, which lists gluten-free options.
- Contact Kettle Brand’s customer service for guidance on specific chips.
- If concerned, avoid flavored chips and stick to original salted.
Being an informed consumer and closely checking labels, certifications and company disclosures allows those avoiding gluten to enjoy Kettle Chips safely.
Snack Safely
Thanks to their simple potato-based recipe, most varieties of Kettle Chips lend themselves to being gluten-free. However, the concerns arise with potential seasonings and flavorings. By taking the following precautions, you can snack confidently:
- Opt for original salted Kettle Chips to stay gluten-free.
- Research flavored chips carefully looking for gluten ingredients.
- Look for the GFCO certification seal for certified products.
- Contact Kettle Brand if you have any doubts or questions.
- Check labels each time you buy, even for “safe” flavors, since recipes can change.
Keeping up with the latest company information and carefully inspecting packaging allows gluten-sensitive fans of Kettle Chips to enjoy these crispy snacks. With knowledge and caution, snacking can remain satisfying and gluten-free.
Kettle Brand’s Gluten-Free Commitment
Kettle Foods understands that providing safe, delicious snacks for gluten-sensitive customers is important. According to their website:
“We recognize that maintaining a 100% gluten-free environment is critical for consumers who suffer from Celiac disease. These consumers have our deepest sympathy and our pledge to continue providing great tasting, gluten-free foods.”
The company has a gluten-free advisory board that oversees manufacturing processes and product testing. Kettle Foods only labels products gluten-free if they have been verified through analytical testing to below 10 ppm. Their commitment provides peace of mind to fans who rely on the chips being a safe snack choice.
Customer Reviews from Gluten-Sensitive Shoppers
In addition to the company’s processes, the feedback from other gluten-free consumers can provide helpful insight into how well Kettle Chips accommodates special diets.
Here are some reviews from gluten-free shoppers:
Sarah K. wrote:
“I’m a loyal Kettle Chips eater and was so happy when they labeled their plain chips gluten-free. As a celiac I’m always looking for chips I don’t have to worry about. Thank you Kettle Chips!”
Mark T. wrote:
“My daughter is gluten intolerant and we’ve avoided most chips. We took a chance on Kettle’s original chips since they’re labeled gluten-free and she’s had no issues enjoying them. Win!”
Rebecca A. wrote:
“I’m super sensitive to cross-contamination with gluten but Kettle plain chips are my go-to for picnics and parties. I’ve never had a problem after eating them. My only complaint is that I wish more flavors were gluten-free!”
The positive experiences and lack of reactions reported provide added confidence in Kettle Chips for gluten-free lives. It’s reassuring when real reviews match the company’s disclosures.
Nutrition Profile
In addition to being gluten-free, Kettle Chips can fit into a healthy diet in appropriate portions. Here is the nutrition profile for a 1-ounce (about 16 chips) serving of original salted Kettle Chips:
- Calories: 130
- Total Fat: 9g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Carbs: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 2g
Key considerations for these gluten-free chips:
- Relatively low in sodium compared to many chips.
- No added sugar.
- Provides some fiber and protein.
- Higher in fat so smaller portions recommended.
Potato chips can work in gluten-free diets as part of an overall balanced approach to snacking and nutrition. Pairing chips with hummus, fresh veggies and fruit makes for a more nutritious and satisfying snack.
Flavored Gluten-Free Options
While the focus is often on original salted chips, Kettle does offer a few flavored varieties verified as gluten-free to less than 10 ppm:
- Jalapeno – Adds spicy jalapeno pepper flavor.
- Salt and Fresh Ground Pepper – Sprinkled with coarse ground black pepper.
- Sea Salt and Vinegar – No malt vinegar is used.
The jalapeno and salt and pepper flavors carry the GFCO certification seal on the package, while sea salt and vinegar is listed on the gluten-free FAQ page on Kettle’s website.
Having a few flavored options in addition to original chips adds versatility for those who need or prefer gluten-free snacks.
Cooking with Kettle Chips
Beyond snacking, Kettle Chips can be incorporated into recipes to add crunch and texture while remaining gluten-free. Some tasty ways to cook with these chips include:
Nachos – Use as sturdy gluten-free chips for loaded nachos. Pile on melted cheese, beans, salsa and other favorite toppings.
Fish or Chicken Coating – Crush chips and combine with gluten-free breadcrumbs or flour to coat meat before baking or air frying.
Potato Chip Chocolate Bars – Melt chocolate chips and mix in crumbled potato chips. Spread into a pan, chill and cut into bars for a sweet-salty treat.
Garnish for Soups or Salads – Crush and sprinkle on top for a crunchy garnish and extra flavor.
Mix into Cookie Dough – For cookies with an added salty bite, stir crumbled chips into gluten-free cookie dough.
Where to Buy Kettle Chips
The popularity of Kettle Chips means they are widely available in grocery stores across the United States and Canada. You can typically find them in the chip aisle at chains like these:
- Walmart
- Target
- Kroger
- Safeway
- Publix
- HEB
Natural food stores like Whole Foods and Sprouts will also carry Kettle Chips in the snack section. They can also be found at some convenience stores.
Online options include ordering through Kettle’s website, Amazon and Instacart. Availability of specific gluten-free flavors may vary by retailer.
Are Kettle Cooked Chips Gluten-Free?
In addition to their best-selling regular Kettle Chips, the company also produces a Kettle Cooked line. These premium chips are made in small batches and thick-sliced.
Like the original Kettle Chips, the Kettle Cooked plain chips are certified gluten-free to less than 10 ppm. They provide a heartier, more substantial crunchy snack but are cooked in the same dedicated gluten-free facility and undergo rigorous testing.
Flavored Kettle Cooked chips should be verified individually, since seasonings may differ from the classic brand flavors. Overall, those avoiding gluten can enjoy both regular and Kettle Cooked styles in the certified gluten-free varieties with confidence.
Are Kettle Chips Vegan?
For those following a vegan diet, Kettle’s classic salted potato chips can fit into plant-based eating. Since they only contain potatoes, oil and salt, these chips do not contain any animal products.
However, it’s important to note that Kettle Brand products are produced in facilities that also process milk-containing products. There is potential for cross-contact that those with severe allergies or following a strict vegan diet may want to consider.
As with gluten, flavored chips may contain non-vegan ingredients like cheese or honey. Checking labels is an important first step for vegans looking to confirm snack ingredients. Reaching out to customer service provides an extra level of assurance.
Are Kettle Chips Healthy?
Kettle Chips are a potato-based snack, so they are not necessarily a “health food.” However, they have some advantages nutrition-wise:
- They’re lower in sodium than many other chips and contain no added MSG.
- Kettle Chips undergo a baking process rather than frying, reducing some fat compared to fried chips.
- They provide a serving of vegetables from the potatoes.
- There are no added sugars or artificial ingredients.
- They can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
As a gluten-free snack option, Kettle Chips are relatively nutritious. But no potato chips should be a dietary staple. Practicing portion control and pairing with fruits, veggies and protein is recommended for overall health.
Are Kettle Chips Keto?
The high fat and low carb content of Kettle Chips makes them a potentially good match for ketogenic diets. A serving of original Kettle Chips contains 9g of fat, 15g of carbs and 2g of protein.
With only 2g net carbs when you subtract fiber, they can likely fit into a keto diet when consumed in reasonable amounts. The fat provides fuel for ketosis. However, the polyunsaturated vegetable oil may not be desirable for some keto plans.
As with any specialized diet, it’s best to verify ingredients and nutrition with your requirements. But overall, Kettle Chips appear to work for many keto followers based on online reviews.
Are Kettle Chips Halal or Kosher?
Kettle Chips plain salted chips are certified Halal and Kosher Parve. These certifications verify the chips align with Muslim halal and Jewish kosher dietary regulations.
The certifications cover regular Kettle Chips produced at the company’s Salem, Oregon and Beloit, Wisconsin plants. However, consumers should check with their religious authorities to confirm if the way the chips are produced meets specific community standards and practices.
Company History
Kettle Foods began in 1982 in Salem, Oregon, founded by Cameron Healy. The story goes that he was initially making the chips as gifts for neighbors and friends using local Oregon potatoes.
Their chips were made in small batches and the signature loud “kettle crunch” came from cooking them in cast iron kettles. The potato slices were stirred by hand to evenly crisp and flavor the chips.
As the popularity of the chips grew, production moved from the kitchen to a factory but kept the same process focused on quality ingredients and small batches. Kettle Foods emphasizes that all their chips are non-GMO and contain no artificial colors or MSG.
The brand was acquired by Campbell Soup Company in 2000. But Kettle retains its identity as a purveyor of premium “better-for-you” chips. Their gluten-free credentials have expanded the appeal and accessibility of their products.
Conclusion
Kettle Brand potato chips can be a satisfying gluten-free snack option. Their commitment to using real foods and earning third-party certifications provides reassurance to gluten-sensitive customers.
While not all flavors currently carry certifications, Kettle’s labeling and transparent disclosures enable informed choices. Combined with careful label reading, those managing celiac disease or gluten intolerance can enjoy Kettle’s trademark crunch and flavors.
For the safest gluten-free snacking, original salted or other certified varieties like jalapeno and peppercorn are recommended. But Kettle Chips’ range of both classic and unique seasonings offers appealing diversity for most dietary needs. Enjoy their chips as a standalone snack or crumbled creatively on meals.
Thanks to Kettle Foods’ conscientious practices and customer service, you can snack confidently as a gluten-free consumer. When you choose certified gluten-free Kettle Chips, you can be at ease that these crispy, flavorful chips safely fit the bill.
