• Check the ingredient list. Some chips are fried in hydrogenated oils. These contain trans fats, which have been linked to health problems, including the development of coronary artery disease.
  • Consider the dip. We found quite a bit of discussion about which tortilla chips are better with dips or as a base for nachos. In general, bigger, flatter chips are preferred for nachos. Smaller, more bite-size chips are preferred for dipping. Clearly, it's a matter of preference.
  • Blue vs. yellow. Blue corn chips don't taste much different from yellow corn chips. The difference boils down mainly to texture: Blue corn chips are rougher on the palate.
  • Be wary of health claims. Multigrain chips generally cost more than corn chips, but experts say that they're no healthier. In fact, they may contain more fat, calories and sodium.
  • Tortilla chips generally contain less fat and fewer calories than potato chips. That's handy to know if you're trying to choose the lesser evil.

If you are lucky enough to live near a tortilla factory, you may be able to purchase fresh chips that have been fried on-site. Avoid chips that have been fried in lard, which is heavy in saturated fat.

Some great-tasting chips aren't distributed nationally. These include California's Have'A Corn Chips, which are made with soy sauce. And El Milagro is said to sell some of the best chips in Chicago.

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