Happy National Potato Chip Day!
A PR rep emailed me a couple of weeks ago, asking if I would like to try a sample of some Terra Blues chips and then blog about it in time for March 14th - National Potato Chip Day. Not that this is a nationally recognized day by Congress, but if it means free potato chips for me? Heck, yeah.
But I was conflicted! I had just a few weeks earlier resolved to give up buying potato chips. Potato chips are my kryptonite. When some people turn to ice cream or chocolate (er, or exercise) when stressed, I need something to crunch on. There’s a hidden serving of guilt and shame as I see the Rorschach-like splotches of grease on the napkin and lingering on my fingers. I once tried replacing potato chips with celery, but let’s face it: CELERY DOES NOT = POTATO CHIPS.
There are obviously a few problematic things with this scenario: 1) I’m coping with my emotions through food, and 2) because the food is being used as a means to an end, I’m one step removed from experience of eating in itself. On top of that, when you eat cheapo, flimsy potato chips, mindless eating becomes an easier trap to fall into. I don’t want to give up potato chips, just be more mindful in when and why I’m eating them. I want to feel like I’m really eating a potato chip when I’m eating a potato chip, not just trying to forget about that deadline next week.
My compromise? Be more moderate with the potato chip purchasing, and when I do have them, go for high quality. I’ve always been a fan of Terra chips, especially the mix with sweet potato and taro. These Terra Blues are made from blue potatoes. Not too salty, they have a slightly nutty flavor. As advertised, they do feel markedly less oily than the typical chip. The chips are sliced thick, giving them heft and a solid crunch that does not induce jaw pain (which, unfortunately, sometimes happens with those taro chips). Available in most grocery stores, co-ops, natural food stores, they’re definitely not cheapo chips. However, you know that you’re getting quality over quantity, and that’s a large part of what mindful eating is all about.
p.s. Thanks @alexdemers for hooking me up w/ the chips!