Bettergoods Chips

Discovering Better Snacking for the Modern Food Enthusiast

As I stand in the snack aisle of my local grocery store, overwhelmed by the sea of colorful bags vying for my attention, I can’t help but think about how much our snacking habits have evolved. Gone are the days when chips were just greasy, guilty pleasures. Today, finding the perfect balance between taste and nutrition has become the holy grail of snacking – and that’s exactly what led me to discover Bettergoods Chips.

Let me take you on my personal journey through the world of Bettergoods Chips – from understanding what makes them unique to exploring their impressive flavor range, and everything in between. Whether you’re a curious first-time buyer or a seasoned fan looking to explore new flavors, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the delicious world of these innovative snacks.

What Are Bettergoods Chips, Anyway?

My first encounter with Bettergoods Chips happened about two years ago during a weekend farmers market excursion. I noticed a modest booth with an eye-catching display of chip bags in various colors. The friendly vendor offered me a sample, and honestly, I wasn’t expecting anything revolutionary – just another “healthy” chip that sacrificed flavor for fewer calories.

Boy, was I wrong.

Bettergoods Chips are the brainchild of a small team of food enthusiasts who set out to create snacks that defied the traditional dichotomy between “tasty” and “good for you.” Founded in 2018, the company began as a small operation in Portland, Oregon, before expanding nationwide.

At their core, Bettergoods Chips are premium snacks crafted with a fundamental philosophy: simple, wholesome ingredients don’t have to mean boring flavors. Unlike conventional chips that often rely heavily on artificial flavoring and preservatives, Bettergoods takes a different approach by focusing on quality ingredients and innovative preparation methods.

The company’s slogan, “Better Ingredients, Better Snacking, Better You,” isn’t just clever marketing – it genuinely reflects their commitment to creating chips that satisfy both your taste buds and nutritional goals.

The Base of Bettergoods: What Are They Made From?

One of the most distinctive aspects of Bettergoods Chips is their diverse base ingredients. Unlike traditional chip brands that typically stick to potatoes or corn, Bettergoods offers a variety of bases to cater to different dietary preferences and taste profiles.

Their original line features classic potato-based chips, but they’ve expanded to include:

• Root vegetable chips (sweet potato, parsnip, and beet)
• Ancient grain chips (primarily quinoa and amaranth)
• Legume-based chips (chickpea and lentil)
• Vegetable-forward blends (kale, spinach, and carrot)

This diversity isn’t just for show – each base brings its own nutritional profile and unique texture experience. The sweet potato chips offer a subtly sweet undertone with a satisfying crunch, while the legume-based varieties provide a protein boost that you won’t find in conventional chips.

I particularly enjoy their mixed root vegetable medley, which combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the mild flavor of parsnips and the familiar comfort of potatoes. It’s like a sophisticated upgrade to the classic potato chip experience.

The Cooking Process: Baked or Fried?

One question I frequently hear from health-conscious friends is whether Bettergoods Chips are baked or fried. The answer is actually both – but not in the way you might expect.

Bettergoods offers two distinct product lines:

1. Bettergoods Classic: These chips are kettle-cooked in small batches using expeller-pressed avocado oil. While technically fried, the company uses a proprietary cooking method that requires significantly less oil than traditional frying processes. The result is a chip with that satisfying traditional crunch but with approximately 30% less fat than conventional fried chips.
2. Bettergoods Air-Crisped: For those seeking an even lighter option, the Air-Crisped line is baked using convection technology that circulates hot air to create a crispy texture without oil immersion. These chips have a slightly different mouthfeel – a bit lighter and more delicate than their Classic counterparts.

I find myself reaching for the Classic line when I’m craving that authentic chip experience, but the Air-Crisped varieties are perfect for everyday snacking when I’m trying to be more mindful of my fat intake.

Flavor Exploration: A Rainbow of Options

If there’s one area where Bettergoods truly shines, it’s their impressive flavor portfolio. Over the past three years, I’ve watched their flavor offerings expand from a modest selection to an impressive array that rivals – and in many ways surpasses – the variety offered by major chip brands.

The Core Collection

Their permanent collection includes familiar favorites with thoughtful upgrades:

• Simply Sea Salt: A perfectly balanced chip that lets the base ingredient shine
• Cracked Black Pepper: Features freshly ground tellicherry peppercorns
• Farmhouse Cheddar: Uses real aged cheddar (not cheese powder)
• Herbs & Olive Oil: Mediterranean-inspired with rosemary, thyme, and oregano
• Smoky Barbecue: Sweetened with molasses rather than refined sugar
• Tangy Vinegar: Uses apple cider vinegar for a more complex tang
• Garden Vegetable: Incorporates dehydrated vegetables for bursts of flavor

Global Inspirations

Their globally-inspired line takes your taste buds on a culinary journey:

• Chipotle Lime: A Mexican-inspired blend of smoky heat and citrus
• Mediterranean Tzatziki: Captures the essence of Greek yogurt and cucumber
• Thai Sweet Chili: Balances sweetness with gentle heat
• Indian Tikka Masala: Features tomato, garam masala, and fenugreek
• Korean Kimchi: Fermented flavor notes with a touch of heat
• Japanese Wasabi & Ginger: Offers aromatic heat that clears the sinuses

Seasonal and Limited Editions

Part of the fun of being a Bettergoods fan is anticipating their seasonal releases:

• Summer: Grilled Corn & Cotija, Watermelon Basil
• Fall: Harvest Pumpkin, Apple Cider
• Winter: Truffle & Thyme, Holiday Cranberry
• Spring: Garden Herb, Lemon Dill

The limited editions typically run for 2-3 months before disappearing, creating a sense of excitement and urgency among devoted fans (myself included). I’ve learned to stock up on my seasonal favorites before they vanish!

For Heat Seekers

If you enjoy spicy foods, Bettergoods hasn’t forgotten you. Their heat-focused line includes:

• Mild Jalapeño: Approachable heat with green pepper notes
• Habanero Lime: Serious heat balanced by citrus
• Ghost Pepper: Their hottest offering, not for the faint of heart

I consider myself someone with a decent heat tolerance, and the Habanero Lime pushes my limits in the most delightful way. It starts with a bright lime flavor before the habanero heat builds gradually – complex enough that you keep coming back for more despite the burn.

Nutrition Profile: The Better in Bettergoods

While taste is certainly important, what initially drew me to Bettergoods was their nutritional philosophy. Bettergoods strikes an impressive balance between indulgence and nutrition that few snack brands achieve.

Clean Ingredients

First and foremost, Bettergoods is committed to clean ingredient lists. Here’s what you won’t find in their chips:

• Artificial flavors
• Artificial colors
• MSG
• High-fructose corn syrup
• Preservatives like BHT or BHA
• Hydrogenated oils

Instead, they use real food ingredients to create their flavors. The cheddar flavor contains actual aged cheddar cheese; the barbecue uses smoked paprika and molasses; the herb varieties include real dried herbs rather than “natural flavors.”

My personal appreciation for this approach deepened when I developed a sensitivity to certain artificial food dyes a few years ago. Finding flavorful snacks without these additives became challenging until I discovered Bettergoods.

Dietary Considerations

Bettergoods has thoughtfully crafted options for various dietary needs:

Gluten-Free Status: All Bettergoods Chips are certified gluten-free, produced in a dedicated facility to prevent cross-contamination. This certification goes beyond simply using gluten-free ingredients – it ensures the entire manufacturing process is safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

Vegan Options: Most Bettergoods varieties are vegan, with clear labeling for those that contain dairy (primarily their cheese flavors). Their commitment extends to avoiding hidden animal products like certain processing aids or flavor carriers that sometimes slip into “accidentally vegan” products.

Organic and Non-GMO: Bettergoods prioritizes organic ingredients whenever possible, with approximately 70% of their product line carrying USDA Organic certification. All products are Non-GMO Project Verified, reflecting their commitment to transparent sourcing.

Allergen Information: Beyond being gluten-free, Bettergoods clearly labels for major allergens. Their dedicated production lines help minimize cross-contamination risks, though they do note which products are produced in facilities that handle tree nuts.

Nutritional Numbers

While specific nutritional values vary across the different bases and flavors, here’s a general overview of what you can expect from a standard 1-ounce (28g) serving of Bettergoods Chips:

Classic Line:

• Calories: 130-150
• Fat: 6-8g (primarily from avocado oil)
• Sodium: 110-170mg (lower than most conventional chips)
• Carbohydrates: 15-18g
• Fiber: 2-4g (higher in the vegetable and legume varieties)
• Protein: 2-5g (with legume-based varieties offering the highest protein content)

Air-Crisped Line:

• Calories: 110-130
• Fat: 2.5-4g
• Sodium: 110-170mg
• Carbohydrates: 18-20g
• Fiber: 2-4g
• Protein: 2-5g

Both lines offer better nutritional profiles than traditional chips, with the Air-Crisped variety being particularly impressive for its lower fat content while maintaining satisfying flavor and texture.

Where to Find Bettergoods Chips

When I first discovered Bettergoods at that farmers market, they were still primarily a regional brand. Today, their distribution has expanded significantly, making them more accessible across the country.

Retail Locations

Bettergoods has secured placement in a variety of retail environments:

Natural Food Stores: Chains like Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Natural Grocers were early adopters of the brand and typically carry the widest selection of flavors.

Conventional Supermarkets: As demand has grown, Bettergoods has expanded into conventional grocery chains like Kroger, Safeway/Albertsons, and Target. These locations usually stock the core flavors rather than the full line.

Specialty and Gourmet Shops: Many independent specialty food stores and gourmet markets feature Bettergoods as part of their curated snack selections.

Convenience Stores: Select convenience store chains have begun carrying the single-serve bags, particularly in urban areas with health-conscious demographics.

I’ve noticed that availability can vary significantly by region. The West Coast and Northeast tend to have the widest distribution, while some parts of the Midwest and South may have more limited options. The company’s store locator on their website is the most reliable way to find specific retailers in your area.

Online Options

For those who can’t find Bettergoods locally or want access to the full flavor range, online purchasing is increasingly convenient:

Direct from Bettergoods: The company’s website offers their complete product line, including limited editions and variety packs not available elsewhere. They also offer a subscription service that provides a 15% discount and early access to new flavors.

Amazon: A selected range of Bettergoods products is available on Amazon, often with Prime shipping options.

Specialty Online Retailers: Sites like Thrive Market, Vitacost, and other natural food e-commerce platforms typically stock Bettergoods.

I personally maintain a subscription through the Bettergoods website for my household staples (the Mixed Root Vegetable with Sea Salt is our everyday favorite), supplemented with in-store purchases when I want to try new limited-edition flavors.

Packaging Options: From Snack-Size to Pantry-Stock

Bettergoods understands that different snacking situations call for different packaging solutions:

Single-Serve Bags (1 oz/28g): Perfect for on-the-go snacking or portion control. These are commonly found in convenience stores, office break rooms, and some grocery checkout lanes.

Standard Bags (5 oz/142g): The most widely available size, found in most retail locations. This size provides several servings and maintains freshness for 1-2 weeks after opening when properly closed.

Family Size (8.5 oz/240g): Available for their most popular flavors, these larger bags are ideal for households with multiple chip enthusiasts or for entertaining.

Variety Packs: Bettergoods offers curated variety packs with 10-12 single-serve bags in complementary flavors. These are especially popular for sampling different options or for lunchbox packing.

Bulk Orders: Through their website, Bettergoods offers bulk purchasing options for businesses or serious chip aficionados. These come in cases of either standard or single-serve bags.

The packaging itself deserves mention – Bettergoods uses recyclable packaging made with a minimum of 30% post-consumer recycled materials. The bags are designed to protect the chips from air and light exposure, helping maintain freshness and prevent the oils from oxidizing.

Price Point: Premium But Justified

Let’s address the elephant in the room – Bettergoods Chips are not the most budget-friendly option on the market. They position themselves as a premium product, and their pricing reflects that positioning.

Typical retail prices as of my last purchase:

• Single-serve bags: $1.49-$1.99
• Standard bags: $3.99-$4.79
• Family size: $5.99-$6.99
• Variety packs: $15.99-$17.99 for 10 single-serve bags

This places them at approximately 30-40% higher than conventional chip brands and about 10-15% higher than other “natural” chip options. However, after becoming a regular consumer, I’ve come to appreciate the value proposition.

The premium price reflects several factors:

• Higher-quality base ingredients (organic where possible)
• More expensive flavoring ingredients (real cheese versus cheese powder, for example)
• Smaller production batches that ensure freshness
• More costly cooking oils (avocado oil versus cheaper alternatives)
• Sustainable packaging initiatives

I’ve found that the satisfaction level is higher with Bettergoods – one standard bag tends to satisfy my chip cravings more completely than a larger bag of conventional chips, partly because the flavors are more complex and satisfying.

To maximize value, I keep an eye out for promotions. Bettergoods regularly offers:

• Seasonal discounts (often 15-20% off during major holidays)
• New customer promotions (typically 10% off first orders online)
• Subscription savings (15% off recurring orders)
• Occasional in-store promotions, particularly when new flavors launch

How Do They Compare to Other Brands?

Having tried numerous “better-for-you” chip brands over the years, I have some thoughts on how Bettergoods stacks up against the competition.

Compared to Traditional Chip Brands

When placed alongside conventional chips like Lay’s, Ruffles, or Pringles, Bettergoods offers:

Advantages:

• Cleaner ingredient lists
• More innovative flavors
• Better nutritional profile
• Higher-quality oils
• More diverse base ingredients

Disadvantages:

• Higher price point
• Less uniform texture (the natural variation can be off-putting if you’re used to highly processed consistency)
• Slightly shorter shelf life due to fewer preservatives
• Less widespread availability

Compared to Other Natural Chip Brands

When compared to peers like Late July, Food Should Taste Good, or Boulder Canyon:

Advantages:

• More diverse flavor options
• Often higher fiber and protein content
• More creative limited-edition offerings
• Better texture in the air-crisped varieties
• More thoughtful packaging design

Disadvantages:

• Slightly higher price point than some competitors
• Less brand recognition
• Fewer bulk options for some varieties

For my taste preferences, Bettergoods has the edge over most competitors in flavor complexity and texture satisfaction. Their chips have a more substantial “bite” than many natural brands, which can sometimes veer toward the too-delicate or too-hard extremes.

What Do Other Customers Think?

While my personal experience with Bettergoods has been overwhelmingly positive, I wanted to ensure I wasn’t in a flavor bubble. So I’ve observed and collected feedback from other consumers through online reviews, social media conversations, and good old-fashioned eavesdropping in grocery store aisles.

The general consensus seems to align with my experience:

Consistent Praise For:

• Flavor innovation and authenticity
• Satisfying texture
• Clean ingredient lists
• Packaging design and freshness preservation

Common Critiques:

• Price point (“worth it but expensive”)
• Inconsistent availability in some regions
• Occasional variation in texture between batches
• Desire for larger package options

Interestingly, the flavor preferences vary widely, with no clear “fan favorite” emerging across reviews. This suggests that Bettergoods has successfully created a diverse enough lineup that different palates can find their perfect match.

On major retail sites, Bettergoods typically maintains ratings between 4.3-4.7 out of 5 stars, with the lower ratings frequently related to shipping issues rather than product quality concerns.

My Personal Bettergoods Favorites

After trying virtually every Bettergoods variety over the past couple of years, I’ve developed some clear personal favorites that I find myself purchasing repeatedly:

Everyday Snacking: The Mixed Root Vegetable with Sea Salt offers a perfect balance of earthy sweetness and salt that pairs with almost anything. The natural sweetness of the beets and sweet potatoes makes these satisfying without feeling indulgent.

For Entertaining: The Ancient Grain Herbs & Olive Oil chips have an almost artisanal quality that elevates a cheese board or appetizer spread. The Mediterranean flavor profile pairs beautifully with hummus, tzatziki, or a good olive tapenade.

With Sandwiches: The Potato-Based Apple Cider Vinegar & Sea Salt chips provide that perfect tangy counterpoint to a rich sandwich. The brightness cuts through heavier flavors without overwhelming them.

For Spice Lovers: The Sweet Potato Chipotle Lime balances heat, sweetness, and acidity in a way that keeps you coming back for “just one more” even as your lips tingle pleasantly.

Guilty Pleasure: The Potato Truffle & Thyme seasonal release is an indulgence I look forward to each winter. The earthy, aromatic flavor feels positively luxurious for a chip.

Cooking and Pairing with Bettergoods Chips

Beyond straight-from-the-bag snacking, I’ve found Bettergoods Chips to be versatile ingredients in the kitchen:

Creative Culinary Uses

• Crushed as Breading: The Herb & Olive Oil variety makes an excellent crust for baked chicken or fish
• As Salad Toppers: The Sea Salt chips add a satisfying crunch to salads in place of croutons
• In Casseroles: Crushed chips make a flavorful topping for casseroles (the Smoky Barbecue works particularly well with mac and cheese)
• With Eggs: Crumbled into scrambled eggs or omelets for texture contrast
• In Baking: Incorporated into savory muffins or bread for flavor bursts

Perfect Pairings

Different Bettergoods varieties shine with different companions:

• Sea Salt varieties pair beautifully with creamy dips like french onion or classic ranch
• Herb-forward chips complement Mediterranean spreads like hummus or baba ganoush
• Cheesy varieties stand up well to robust salsas and guacamole
• Spicy options find balance with cooling yogurt-based dips
• Sweet-leaning flavors (like the Sweet Potato) work surprisingly well with fruit salsas

For beverages, I’ve found that:

• Citrus-flavored sparkling water enhances the lighter varieties
• Craft beer (particularly IPAs) complements the more robust flavors
• Dry white wines pair nicely with the herb-forward options
• Iced tea brings out the nuances in the barbecue and smoky varieties

Tips for First-Time Bettergoods Buyers

If you’re intrigued enough to try Bettergoods for yourself, here are some recommendations based on my experience:

1. Start with a variety pack if available – it’s the most cost-effective way to discover your preferences without committing to full-size bags.
2. Begin with familiar flavors before venturing into the more experimental options. The Sea Salt or Cracked Pepper varieties provide good baseline experiences of the texture and quality.
3. Check the production date stamped on the bag – Bettergoods is best within 3-4 months of production. While still safe beyond that, the flavors and texture peak when fresh.
4. Store properly once opened. While the packaging is designed to maintain freshness, transferring opened chips to an airtight container will extend their peak quality.
5. Look for promotions at natural food stores, which often offer Bettergoods as part of their periodic sales rotations.
6. Consider base ingredients when selecting flavors. The potato-based chips provide the most familiar chip experience, while the vegetable and ancient grain varieties offer more distinct textures and flavor profiles.

The Future of Bettergoods

Based on company announcements and industry trends, here’s what appears to be on the horizon for Bettergoods:

• Expanded Distribution: The company has mentioned plans to continue growing their retail footprint, particularly in regions currently underserved.
• New Product Lines: Rumors suggest they’re developing complementary snack categories beyond chips, potentially including popcorn and crackers with the same commitment to quality ingredients.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Bettergoods has pledged to transition to fully compostable packaging by 2026, building on their existing environmental commitments.
• Collaboration Flavors: Limited-edition collaborations with chefs, restaurants, and other food brands seem to be in development, offering even more innovative flavor experiences.
• Functional Ingredients: Early testing of varieties incorporating adaptogens and other functional ingredients has been reported, potentially creating chips with benefits beyond basic nutrition.

As someone who has watched the brand evolve over the past few years, I’m excited to see how they continue to innovate while maintaining their core commitment to quality.

Final Thoughts: Are Bettergoods Chips Worth It?

After thousands of words exploring every aspect of Bettergoods Chips, the question remains: Are they worth the premium price and potential hunt to find them?

In my experience, the answer is a resounding yes for anyone who values both flavor and ingredient quality in their snacks. Bettergoods has successfully created chips that satisfy the primal craving for something crunchy and flavorful without the artificial ingredients and excessive processing of conventional options.

That said, they may not be for everyone. If you’re strictly budget-focused or prefer the ultra-consistent experience of highly processed chips, Bettergoods might feel like an unnecessary splurge. Their natural variation and more complex flavor profiles may not appeal to those seeking the familiar comfort of conventional chips.

For me, Bettergoods has found that elusive balance point where indulgence meets mindfulness – allowing me to enjoy a traditionally “guilty pleasure” snack without compromising my commitment to eating real, high-quality foods. In a world of increasingly processed options, that’s something worth celebrating – and worth the extra dollar or two per bag.

Whether you’re a curious first-timer or a fellow enthusiast, I hope this guide helps you navigate the wonderful world of Bettergoods Chips and perhaps discover a new favorite snack along the way. Happy crunching!