Do Takis Cause Cancer?

Takis’s popularity has skyrocketed over the past decade, not surprisingly because of its bold flavor and convenience as an accessible go-to snack. These rolled corn tortilla chips are often consumed by teenagers and young adults, and are a fiery alternative to traditional potato chips.

Takis are usually high in calories, saturated fat, refined carbohydrates, and sodium, while lacking essential micronutrients such as fiber, and protein. A 1-ounce (28-gram) package of Takis Fuego contains:

• Calories: 140 kcal
• Protein: 2 grams
• Fat: 8 grams
• Carbs: 16 grams
• Sodium: 390 mg (16% of the Daily Value)

Takis are also often ultra-processed and refined, which makes regular consumption as a daily dietary staple a risk factor for heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity in the long-term.

Takis are considerably high in their sodium content. Any excess consumption of sodium over a period of time can result in negative health side effects, such as heightened blood pressure. Furthermore, the Takis Fuego — one of the chips’ most popular flavors — contains extremely high levels of the synthetic food dye, Allura Red AC (Red 40). Recent experiments on mice have found that continued, long-term exposure to the dye could trigger neurobehavioral issues, gastrointestinal pain and DNA damage. While not specific to Red 40, studies also demonstrate a coincidental increase in early-onset colorectal cancer amongst young people with the rising use of synthetic food colors in ultra-processed foods.

Currently, more research is still needed to concretely establish whether the effects of such synthetic dyes translate to higher cancer incidence in humans.

All in all, Takis alone do not directly cause cancer, and it is unlikely that the occasional munch will either. However, excessive consumption of them, paired with a high-fat diet, may expose the body to chemicals associated with increased cancer risk. For example, continuous excessive consumption of sodium-rich foods can damage the lining of the stomach over time, being linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer.

To lower your risk, enjoy Takis in moderation. You may also try out other healthier alternatives such as mixed nuts, edamame, air-popped popcorn or cheese and crackers to get your snack fix.