Ingredients: Pringles are made from a slurry of rice, wheat, corn, and potato flakes.
Manufacturing Process: The slurry is pressed into shape, rolled into a thin sheet, cut into chip-like pieces, molded, fried in boiling oil, dried, flavored, and then stacked into cans.
Health Risks:
Acrylamide Formation: Acrylamide, a carcinogenic chemical, forms when carbohydrate-rich foods like potato chips are cooked at high temperatures. It’s a significant concern due to its potential neurotoxicity and cancer risk.
Regulatory Actions: California sued potato chip makers for high acrylamide levels, resulting in a settlement where companies agreed to reduce acrylamide content.
Comparison: Baked chips, often perceived as healthier, can contain even higher levels of acrylamide than fried ones.