Banana chips are dried, fried slices of bananas that have become an increasingly popular snack. They’re usually coated with sugary syrup or spices and salt.

Although bananas themselves are highly nutritious, you may wonder if the same can be said of banana chips.

Unlike bananas, banana chips are highly processed. They’re commonly fried in oil and cooked with ingredients like honey or syrup that contribute significant calories, sugar, and fat.

A 1-cup (72-gram) serving of banana chips provides:

Calories: 374
Protein: 1.6 grams
Carbs: 42 grams
Fiber: 5.5 grams
Sugar: 25 grams
Total fat: 24 grams
Saturated fat: 21 grams
Potassium: 8% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin B6: 11% of the DV

Although this snack boasts fiber and a few vitamins and minerals, these benefits are quickly offset by the fat, calorie, and sugar content. Plus, since banana chips are dehydrated and fried, they’re highly palatable and easy to overeat.

Most banana chips are fried in oil and coated in syrup, which loads them with calories, fat, and sugar

Banana chips may be a convenient snack on occasion.

Since banana chips are light, easy to pack, and a quick source of calories and simple carbs, they’re an excellent option when you’re on the go, hiking, or refueling after rigorous exercise.

What’s more, because they’re dehydrated, they have a much longer shelf life than fresh bananas. You also don’t have to worry about bruising or damage, which is advantageous for outdoor trips.

Banana chips are convenient, easy to pack, and a quick source of energy. Their long shelf life makes them great for camping or hiking trips.

Banana chips are usually fried in oil to give them a crunchy texture.

Manufacturers tend to use coconut or sunflower oil but may utilize any frying oil.

A single cup (72 grams) of banana chips packs 24 grams of fat, 21 of which are saturated. A diet high in saturated fats from processed foods is linked to a higher risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease.

Additionally, the high fat content of banana chips adds a lot of extra calories. For example, the same serving of banana chips contains over 250% more calories than a medium banana.

High in sugar

Some banana chips are coated in syrup or honey, significantly adding to their sugar content.

One cup (72 grams) of banana chips contains 25 grams of sugar, which includes 10.5 grams of added sugar, compared with 14.5 grams of natural sugar in a medium (118-gram) banana.

Most banana chips are fried in oil and sweetened factors that not only contribute to their high calorie and sugar content but also may increase disease risk.

While they may seem healthy at first glance, banana chips can be loaded with calories, saturated fat, and added sugar.

For a healthier alternative, look for dehydrated, non-fried banana chips made without added sugar. Better yet, choose a whole banana.

If you decide to eat banana chips, be mindful of your portion size.