Whether you’re there for the nuggets, the chicken tortilla soup, or the original chicken sandwich, a trip to Chick-fil-A isn’t complete without a pack of crispy waffle fries in your paper bag. For decades, the popular waffle fries have been an iconic part of the Chick-Fil-A experience, consistently drawing rave reviews from fans. In fact, they even managed to beat out nine other major chains and land at the top of our taste test.

But as any regular fast food fan knows, when something as familiar as a typical menu item changes, it doesn’t go unnoticed. And if this change is not due to a defective batch or a new location, there is cause for investigation.

Has Chick-fil-A changed its fries?

Back in November, there were conversations online among customers who noticed that the famous waffle fries were a little different, and not for the better. Some described it as “crunchy” but “not in a good way,” while others reported a dry, almost freezer-burnt taste.

“It now seems to me that they are almost like breaded french fries and just don’t have the same taste as the original waffle fries. Needless to say, I’m not a huge fan,” one customer shared on Reddit. “You’re trash now!” another added.

So what’s the verdict? Yes, Chick-fil-A actually changed its fries. The company confirmed the change with an official statement on its website:

“We know Chick-Fil-A fans love our Waffle Potato Fries. We recently made a slight adjustment to our waffle potato fries recipe that delivers the same great taste while ensuring our waffle potato fries stay crispy longer.”

Why did Chick-fil-A change its fries?

The most widely accepted theory behind the change is the growing trend of shrinkage and the phenomenon known as “Fry Gate” that emerged on social media. Complaints about soggy fries and underfilled boxes may have prompted the company to try a new formula. That’s why Chick-fil-A introduced a crispier french fry that stays firm longer, resulting in a fuller, more filling portion in every package.

But it turns out that fans prefer their “floppy fries” after all.

And if the complaints were just about the taste, that would be one thing. However, some customers are also concerned about the possible health effects of the change. Chick-fil-A’s new frying recipe contains a coating of pea starch, which some people with peanut allergies are also allergic to. This change could pose a serious problem for some fans, as the fries and even the restaurant itself are now off-limits.

“So many kids with peanut allergies can’t eat peas either!!!” One user commented on an Instagram post. “Unfortunately we can’t eat there anymore.”

On the other hand, the backlash, while strong, is not universal. A handful of customers have boldly shared that they prefer the new, crispier texture. “I like crispy fries so it doesn’t bother me,” one commenter wrote. “I personally love her,” said another.

It seems the real lesson here is transparency in the fast food space. As much as customers value their favorite menu items, they also want to feel respected and informed when changes are made, especially when they may be harmful to their health. After all, a loyal fan base like Chick-fil-A’s deserves to know exactly what’s in their food.

Are you trying out the new fries or are you hoping for a return to the classic “floppy” version? One thing is for sure: The debate over Chick-fil-A’s fries is far from over.