Why Chick-fil-A’s Waffle Fries Might Taste Different: What You Need to Know

Why Chick-fil-A’s Waffle Fries Might Taste Different

Chick-fil-A recently introduced a change to its Waffle Potato Fries by adding pea starch to the coating, intending to keep the fries “crispier, longer” while preserving the taste. However, the adjustment has sparked backlash from some customers, who feel that the new fries are dry, stale, and lack the flavor they once enjoyed. Several social media users expressed disappointment, with some even requesting the return of the original recipe, calling the new fries “awful” and “terrible.”

The reactions from disappointed customers have been especially vocal on platforms like Reddit and Instagram. One Reddit user described the fries as "horrible" and "hardened," while others shared similar concerns about the altered texture and taste. While some of the complaints were centered around the change in texture, others raised concerns over the potential allergenic effects of pea starch, particularly for those with peanut allergies. Though Health Canada has noted that the risk of severe reactions is low, the concern remains among certain customers.

In its response, Chick-fil-A clarified that the new recipe still meets allergen safety standards and does not contain any of the nine major allergens. A spokesperson reaffirmed that the goal of the pea starch addition was to enhance the fries' crispiness without sacrificing the flavor customers love. Despite the backlash, the company emphasized that the fries continue to offer the same “great taste.”

This change is not the first time Chick-fil-A has made adjustments to its menu. Last year, the company switched to using chicken from farms that adhere to the No Antibiotics Important to Human Medicine (NAIHM) standard. These changes reflect Chick-fil-A's efforts to improve product quality, but the recent shift in the fries recipe has drawn criticism, with many hoping for the original version to return.