The Heat Check

The label points to a classic, crisp experience with a heat that seems to build. With 3g of sugar per 100g, there's a subtle sweetness that may round out the jalapeño kick, alongside savory notes from onion and yeast extracts. I imagine these being wonderfully crunchy, perhaps a bit oily as kettle chips can be. A real-life moment for these? Tucked into a gym bag for a post-workout treat, though the salt might make you thirsty. The trade-off is clear: it's a rich, indulgent profile, not a light snack. You're getting that full-fat satisfaction.

This version presents a very clean ingredient list for a flavored chip, relying on natural flavors for its profile. The sugar content is listed at 0g, which suggests the heat and savory notes from the onion and torula yeast take center stage without any sweet interference. The texture sounds like it could be exceptionally crisp. I could see these being a perfect, slightly guilty pleasure during a late-night work session. The main trade-off might be a flavor that some find less complex compared to those with a hint of sugar to balance the spice. It's a purist's jalapeño.

With 3g of sugar per 100g, this chip offers a potential touch of sweetness to temper the jalapeño's fire. The inclusion of natural flavors alongside onion powder and yeast extracts hints at a savory, umami-rich profile that feels quite gourmet. The texture promises a satisfying bite. This is the kind of snack I'd pack in the office desk drawer for a 3 PM pick-me-up, though the aroma might travel. The trade-off is that the sweetness, while subtle, might not appeal to someone strictly seeking a savory, salty chip. It's a dance between heat and a hint of sweet.

This option sits in the middle with 2g of sugar, suggesting a very gentle sweetness that might just soften the jalapeño edge. The use of natural flavors and yeast extracts points to a savory depth that could be quite pleasing without being overwhelming. The texture is likely a standard, satisfying crunch. I can picture these being a hit at a casual get-together, though they might be a touch too mild for true heat seekers. The trade-off is its potential lack of intensity; it's a chip that plays it safe, offering flavor without a major punch. It's approachable.

The kettle-cooked style promises a denser, crunchier bite, which can be incredibly satisfying. The seasoning blend, with maltodextrin, onion, and dextrose, aims for a robust jalapeño flavor. At 3g of sugar per 100g, there's a hint of sweetness to balance the salt and spice. I can easily see these being the star of a late-night craving, where that extra crunch makes all the difference. The trade-off is that the hearty texture can sometimes feel a bit heavy, and the oil used for frying might leave a slight residue on your fingers. It's a substantial chip.