Is SPICY CHILI CRISP Keto?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look beyond the marketing hype to the chemical composition of what we eat. When analyzing Soybean oil, we see the primary vehicle for the chili crisp. While it is low in carbohydrates, it is high in Omega-6 fatty acids. For a keto diet, which prioritizes healthy fats like avocado or olive oil, soybean oil is a less optimal choice due to its inflammatory potential when consumed in excess.

The most significant red flag for keto dieters is sugar. Sugar is a direct carbohydrate that spikes insulin levels and halts ketosis. In this product, sugar is used to balance the heat of the chili and the savory notes of the onion. Even a small amount of added sugar can accumulate quickly if you are generous with your serving size.

We also see monosodium glutamate (MSG) and prickly ash powder. MSG is a flavor enhancer that is technically zero-calorie and keto-safe, but some individuals prefer to avoid it. The prickly ash powder adds the numbing sensation characteristic of Sichuan cuisine and is perfectly fine for keto. However, the presence of sulfur dioxide and sodium sulfite acts as preservatives for the soybean components; while not affecting ketosis, they are additives that some clean-eating enthusiasts prefer to avoid.

Nutritional Value

Looking at the nutritional profile, the density of this condiment is concerning for keto dieters. The sugar content is the primary culprit. In a diet where the daily limit is often 20 to 50 grams of net carbs, a serving of chili crisp containing even 2 to 3 grams of sugar takes up a significant percentage of your allowance. Because the soybean oil provides the bulk of the calories, you are essentially consuming high calories from fat alongside hidden carbohydrates from sugar. This combination does not support the metabolic state of ketosis effectively. While the fat content is high, the source is not ideal, and the carbohydrate count, though seemingly low per serving, is derived from added sugars rather than fiber-rich vegetables.