Most of the time, Chick-fil-A customers rave about the chain. Every now and then, however, this restaurant finds its way into the spotlight for less spectacular reasons. For example, in 2023’s “Friesgate,” social media users were convinced that CFA’s three sizes of fries contained similar levels, and it later faced backlash over its revised antibiotic use policy.
In 2024, Chick-fil-A faced criticism again when it unexpectedly changed its waffle fries recipe, adding new ingredients that some considered questionable.
Now, the chain has quietly reversed course on that decision.
Chick-fil-A removes pea starch from waffle fries
A Chick-fil-A representative confirmed to Allrecipes that waffle fries no longer contain pea starch. The chain’s website recently updated with a new FAQ page on the matter, and the ingredient list now reflects the change.
Photo credit: Allrecipes/Karen Hibbard
In late 2024, customers noticed that Chick-fil-A’s waffle fries tasted different. Soon after, it was confirmed that the chain had begun using a pea starch coating on its signature fries. For those unfamiliar, pea starch is a neutral-flavored powder sometimes used in gluten-free baking to enhance crispness and texture.
The improved recipe has become a hot topic among diners. Some people appreciated the change, while others thought the coating made the taste worse.
Additionally, there are concerns about allergic reactions. Peas and peanuts are both legumes. In some cases, people with peanut allergies can also react to pea starch. For those concerned about reactivity issues, this would make the beloved prime menu item off-limits. But now, those who can’t eat pea starch can once again order waffle fries at Chick-fil-A without any worries.
In a recent Reddit post, users discussed the menu update. “I’m going to miss pea starch. No one said that,” one person quipped. “So do they taste good again? I remember when they added pea starch it made them taste disgusting,” wrote another.
Several Chick-fil-A lovers who have recently tried the French fries have reassuring reviews. “As someone who hates pea starch, I had some of their chips the other day and can confirm they taste the same as before,” they wrote. “Yes. I tried them the week before and was amazed at how well they worked and the salt actually stuck to them!”
A few people noted that they’ve never tasted the difference in fries, but overall, the comments section was filled with people excited about the change.
If you do go to Chick-fil-A, be sure to check with the manager which version you will receive. Some stores may use leftover stock, especially for those with allergies, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.
Read the original article on Allrecipes
