Randy Chandler
Nacho Cheese Doritos are a variety of tortilla chips produced by Frito-Lay, a subsidiary of PepsiCo. They were first introduced in 1972 and are now available worldwide, with some regional variation. The chips have a dedicated fanbase, but some have noted a change in taste over the years, with some calling the new taste stale and nasty. In this paragraph, we will explore what Nacho Cheese Doritos are made of and how their ingredients contribute to their unique flavor.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main ingredients | Corn, Vegetable Oil (Sunflower, Canola, and/or Corn Oil), Salt, Cheddar Cheese, Maltodextrin, Whey, Monosodium Glutamate, Buttermilk, Romano Cheese, Whey Protein Concentrate, Onion Powder, Natural and Artificial Flavor, Dextrose, Tomato Powder, Spices, Lactic Acid, Artificial Color, Citric Acid, Sugar, Garlic Powder, Red and Green Bell Pepper Powder |
| Additional ingredients | Corn Flour, Disodium Phosphate, Lactose, Skim Milk, Corn Syrup Solids, Nonfat Milk Solids, Whey Protein Isolate |
| Allergens | Milk, Eggs, Fish, Crustacean Shellfish, Tree Nuts, Peanuts, Wheat, Soybeans |
| Nutrition concerns | Calories, Saturated Fat, Trans Fat, Sugar, Sodium, Protein, Fiber, Fruit, Vegetable, Nut Content |
| Ingredient concerns | Antibiotics, Growth promoters, Carcinogenic Artificial Colors |
| Processing concerns | Hydrogenated Oils, Mono and Di-glycerides, Emulsifiers |
| Price | Around $5 per bag |
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What You'll Learn
Corn and vegetable oil
Corn is the first ingredient in Nacho Cheese Doritos, and it is used to create the tortilla chip base. Raw yellow corn kernels are soaked in near-boiling water, combined with lime (the chemical, not the fruit), washed, ground into a corn flour called masa, pressed into the famous "Dorito" shape, and then fried. The lime has multiple functions: it loosens the husks, making them easier to remove, adds calcium to the corn, and releases niacin (vitamin B3), which is known to improve cholesterol levels and lower cardiovascular risk.
Vegetable oil is the second ingredient in Nacho Cheese Doritos, and it is used to fry the corn tortilla chips into their famous shape. The vegetable oils used are sunflower oil, canola oil, and/or corn oil, depending on which source is cheapest at the time of production.
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Maltodextrin, salt, and cheese
Maltodextrin is a common additive in processed foods. It is a white powder made from corn, rice, potato starch, or wheat. The process of making it involves cooking the starches and then adding acids or enzymes to break them down further. It is closely related to corn syrup solids, but with a lower sugar content. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved maltodextrin as a safe food additive, and it is included in the nutritional value of food as part of the total carbohydrate count. It is generally used as a thickener or filler to increase the volume of processed food, as well as a preservative that increases the shelf life of packaged foods. It is also combined with artificial sweeteners to sweeten products.
Maltodextrin can provide carbohydrates and energy, especially for those with high energy requirements such as athletes. It is quickly digestible and can provide a quick boost of calories. However, it has a high glycemic index (GI) value, which means it can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, especially if consumed in large amounts. For this reason, people with diabetes or insulin resistance should be mindful of their consumption, and it may be beneficial to limit intake to keep gut bacteria healthy.
Salt, or sodium chloride, has been prized by ancient civilizations such as the Hebrews, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Hittites, Egyptians, and Indians. It has been used in religious ceremonies and holds cultural and traditional significance. Salt is processed from salt mines, and by the evaporation of seawater (sea salt) and mineral-rich spring water in shallow pools. While it is commonly used as a seasoning, the greatest single use for salt is as a feedstock for the production of chemicals. It is used in the manufacture of products such as caustic soda, chlorine, polyvinyl chloride, plastics, and paper pulp.
Cheese is a dairy product made from the pressed curds of milk. It is a good source of protein and calcium. The specific type of cheese used in Nacho Cheese Doritos is not specified, but it is likely a blend of cheeses chosen for their flavour and melting properties. Cheese is a popular ingredient in snacks and dishes, adding flavour and texture.
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Whey, monosodium glutamate, and buttermilk
Whey is a byproduct of cheese-making, containing milk proteins, lactose, vitamins, and minerals. In Nacho Cheese Doritos, whey is used as a source of milk protein, contributing to the overall protein content of the product. It also enhances the texture and mouthfeel of the cheese seasoning, giving it a creamier and smoother consistency.
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer commonly used in food products. It is derived from glutamic acid, a naturally occurring amino acid. MSG is known for its ability to intensify the perception of other flavours, enhancing the overall taste experience. In Nacho Cheese Doritos, MSG is added to accentuate the cheese flavour and create a more savoury profile.
Buttermilk is a type of fermented dairy product created by culturing milk with bacteria. It has a tangy, slightly sour taste and a thicker consistency compared to regular milk. In Nacho Cheese Doritos, buttermilk solids or powder are used, which are made by removing the liquid from buttermilk and drying it. This process concentrates the flavour and extends the shelf life of the product. The use of buttermilk contributes to the tangy, cheesy flavour and helps to create a more complex taste profile.
The combination of whey, monosodium glutamate, and buttermilk in Nacho Cheese Doritos works synergistically to create a robust cheese flavour. These ingredients enhance the taste, texture, and overall sensory experience of the product, contributing to its popularity as a snack food.
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Artificial colours and flavours
Nacho Cheese Doritos contain both artificial colours and flavours, as indicated on the ingredient list. The artificial colours used are Yellow 6, Yellow 5, and Red 40. These synthetic colour additives are often derived from petroleum and are added to give the product a bright, appealing colour. While they are approved by the FDA for use in food, there have been concerns and debates about their potential health effects, with some studies suggesting a link to cancer. However, it's important to note that these studies use extremely high amounts of artificial colours, far exceeding normal consumption levels.
The artificial flavours in Nacho Cheese Doritos are not explicitly stated on the ingredient list, but they are likely used to enhance the cheese flavour and overall taste profile of the product. These additives can be created from a variety of chemicals and natural sources, such as fruits, spices, or even meat. While they add flavour to the product, artificial flavours can sometimes have a negative impact on taste and texture, as noted by some consumers who have complained about a "buttery taint aftertaste" and a decline in the quality of Doritos.
The use of artificial colours and flavours in processed foods is a controversial topic. On the one hand, these additives can improve the sensory appeal and shelf life of products, making them more marketable and convenient for consumers. On the other hand, there are concerns about their potential health effects, especially when consumed in large quantities. As a result, some consumers prefer to avoid products with artificial additives and opt for more natural or organic alternatives.
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Health concerns and allergens
Nacho Cheese Doritos contain ingredients that may be of concern to health-conscious consumers or those with specific allergies and dietary requirements. Firstly, they contain milk derivatives, which are considered major food allergens according to the FDA. These include milk, cheese cultures, buttermilk, and whey. While milk is one of the eight major allergens that must be labelled on products, it is important to note that the presence of potential allergens does not affect the overall product score.
Secondly, Nacho Cheese Doritos contain artificial trans fats, which have been linked to negative health outcomes. The product includes canola oil and corn oil, which can contribute small amounts of unhealthy artificial trans fats. A 2012 study by FDA scientists estimated that refined oil contributes an average of 0.6 grams of trans fat per day, which is not insignificant when compared to the World Health Organization's recommended limit of less than 1 to 2 grams per day.
Additionally, Nacho Cheese Doritos contain artificial colours, including Yellow 6, Yellow 5, and Red 40. While the amount of artificial colours consumed through food is typically very small, there have been studies suggesting that artificial colours may be carcinogenic. However, it is worth noting that the studies used significantly higher amounts of artificial colours than what is typically found in food.
Furthermore, Nacho Cheese Doritos are high in sodium, with salt listed as one of the ingredients. Excessive sodium intake has been linked to increased blood pressure and other health issues.
It is worth noting that while Nacho Cheese Doritos may contain ingredients of concern, the overall impact on health depends on the frequency and amount of consumption, as well as individual health conditions and dietary restrictions. Consumers should always refer to the ingredients list and make informed choices based on their specific needs and preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
Nacho Cheese Doritos are made of corn, vegetable oil, maltodextrin, salt, cheddar cheese, whey, monosodium glutamate, buttermilk, romano cheese, whey protein concentrate, onion powder, natural and artificial flavour, dextrose, tomato powder, spices, lactic acid, citric acid, sugar, garlic powder, red and green bell pepper powder, and artificial colour.
Yes, Doritos removed gluten from their Nacho Cheese flavour. The old recipe used wheat flour in the flavouring.
No, Nacho Cheese Doritos contain ingredients derived from animals, including milk, cheese, buttermilk, and whey.
Nacho Cheese Doritos were launched in 1972 and were distributed nationally in the United States.
