Marina's Menu: NATIONAL POTATO CHIP DAY 3/14

March 14th is National Potato Chip Day followed by Chip and Dip Day on March 23rd. These unofficial food holidays salute America's #1 snack food. We've rounded up some facts about potato chips for our readers.

-Potato chips have been around since 1853 and were created by a chef to make a crispy potato side dish.

-Early in the 20th century, potato chips started being sold in bags.

-It takes 10,000 pounds of potatoes to make 3,500 pounds of potato chips.

-Potato chips are considered a high-calorie snack. A once ounce serving of potato chips is about 155 calories making a 10 ounce bag over 1,500 calories.

-The very first potato chip "flavor" was salt & vinegar. Flavors tend to be regional to reflect the taste preferences of an area. For instance, in Greece, oregano seasoning on chips is popular. In Japan, wasabi is a favorite.

-Americans eat an average of 6 pounds of potato chips annually.

-Potato chips can be deep fried, kettle cooked, baked or popped.

-The North Dakota area is known for chocolate covered dessert potato chips called "chippers."

So, Munch, crunch and enjoy!