How to Revive Stale Chips

Stale chips can be made fresh again in the microwave.

Potato chips become stale when they are exposed to air for an extended period of time. During the frying process, when a potato is made into a chip, the potatoes will lose all moisture. When the potato chips are exposed to air, that moisture is reintroduced, making the chips stale. To keep your chips fresher for longer, always use a clip to keep an opened bag of chips closed. Another alternative is to pour the chips into a plastic container with a lid.

Things You'll Need

• Paper towels
• Microwave

Instructions

1. Spread the stale chips evenly on a paper towel. Do not place the potato chips on top of one another. If they are stacked on top of one another, they may adhere together during the microwaving process.

2. Place in the microwave and heat for 30 seconds. Remove the chips from the microwave and set aside to cool.

3. Taste the potato chips once they have cooled. If they are still stale, microwave for another 30 seconds. If they are still stale after the second microwaving attempt, throw them away. They are not salvageable.

Tips & Warnings

• Tortilla chips can also be freshened in the microwave.

References

• The Fun Times Guide: 7 Unique Ways to Seal Potato Chip Bags to Keep Chips Fresh

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development: How Potato Chips are Made