Lay’s potato chips have sparked a new round of online discussion after a comparison shared by food content creator Nalini Unagar pointed out a clear difference in the ingredients used in products sold in India and the United States.

In the US market, Lay’s chips are advertised as being cooked in sunflower oil. In contrast, packets sold in India mention palmolein oil. This disparity has fueled broader conversations about ingredient standards and brand transparency.

Sunflower oil is generally known to contain lower levels of saturated fat. Palm-derived oils, on the other hand, have higher saturated fat content, which has been associated with elevated LDL cholesterol and a greater risk of heart-related conditions when consumed frequently. Given India’s growing burden of lifestyle-related health issues, this distinction has caused concern among consumers.

A section of buyers believes that global brands often offer better-quality ingredients in Western countries while opting for less expensive alternatives in cost-sensitive markets such as India. This belief has resulted in frustration, dissatisfaction, and renewed debate over possible double standards.

In response, PepsiCo India has begun trials using a mix of sunflower oil and palmolein oil instead of relying solely on palm oil. The company states that this change could make Lay’s comparatively healthier without altering its taste or brand identity.

Whether this blended oil becomes the permanent formulation will largely depend on public demand. As more Indian consumers examine ingredient labels and seek greater accountability, pressure may increase on brands to follow consistent standards across global markets.