Although bananas in their natural form are a rice source of fiber, potassium and vitamin C, banana chips do not hold the same nutritional value. In addition to the lower content of these important nutrients, banana chips also have a considerable amount of fat added in the frying process, making them not the healthiest choice.
Calories
Banana chips are a high-calorie food, with just 1 oz. supplying 147 calories. The difference in caloric value between the chips and the banana in its natural state is notable -- one large banana weighing approximately 136 g supplies 121 calories. This increase in calories results from the frying process because the banana absorbs the oil. Because banana chips are a concentrated source of energy, they should be enjoyed in moderation and not as frequently as the fresh fruit.
Fiber
According to Livestrong's MyPlate, 1 oz. of banana chips supplies 2.2 g of fiber, and one large banana contains 3.5 g. Fiber is important in terms of maintaining healthy digestion, as well as providing a sense of fullness to prevent overeating. In addition, it plays a role in controlling blood cholesterol levels. Because banana chips contain more calories and less fiber than the banana in its natural form, they do not play as useful a role in weight control.
Fat
One of the largest differences between the banana in its natural form and banana chips is the total and saturated fat content. Banana chips supply a whopping 9.5 g of saturated fat per ounce, of which 8.2 g is saturated. In contrast, a natural banana contains less than 1 g of total fat. The saturated fat that is added in the frying process can be expected to have a negative effect on health, particularly in terms of the cholesterol and the heart.
Vitamins and Minerals
Some of the vitamins and minerals found in natural bananas are reduced in the process of creating banana chips. Although a natural banana contains 20 percent of the daily value for vitamin C and 14 percent of the daily value for potassium, banana chips contain virtually none, with both at less than 5 percent of the daily value. Given that potassium is important in terms of cell functioning and vitamin C is an antioxidant, banana chips are lacking compared with their natural source.
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