Corn chips are a popular snack that is loved by people of all ages around the world. These crunchy and flavorful chips are usually made with cornmeal, oil and salt, although there are many variations and flavors available in the market today. Making corn chips is an interesting process that involves several steps to create the final product we all know and love.

The first step in producing corn chips is purchasing corn. Corn is a staple crop grown in many regions of the world, with the United States being one of the largest producers. The corn used to make corn chips is usually a special variety known as dent corn, which is different from the sweet corn that is eaten on the cob. Dental corn has a higher starch content, making it ideal for processing into cornmeal and ultimately into corn chips.

Once the corn is harvested, it is dried and then ground into fine cornmeal. The cornmeal is then mixed with water and other ingredients such as oil, salt and seasonings to form a dough-like mixture. This mixture is then extruded through a machine that gives the dough the iconic triangular shape of a corn chip. The chips are then cut to size and placed on a conveyor belt, which transports them through a fryer filled with hot oil.

The frying process is critical to the production of corn chips as it gives the crispy texture and golden color to the chips. The chips are fried for a period of time until they are crisp enough to be packaged and sold to consumers. After frying, the chips are usually seasoned with salt or flavorings before being packaged in bags or containers for distribution.

Apart from traditional corn chips, there are many varieties and flavors available in the market today. Some companies offer organic or non-GMO corn chips made with all-natural ingredients, while others have created unique flavors such as jalapeño, ranch, or barbecue. These flavored corn chips are becoming increasingly popular as consumers look for new and interesting snack options.

Making corn chips is a fun process that involves sourcing, chopping, mixing, extruding, frying and seasoning to create the final product we all love. Whether you prefer traditional corn chips or like to experiment with different flavors, there's no denying the popularity and appeal of this classic snack. So the next time you reach for a bag of corn chips, take a moment to appreciate the care and craftsmanship that goes into creating these delicious and filling snacks.