FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentsnackBANQUET· 10 PIECES. PER CONTAINER ABOUT

BANQUET POPCORN CHICKEN, CHICKEN PATTY FRITTERS

BANQUET POPCORN CHICKEN, CHICKEN PATTY FRITTERS scores 51/100 (Decent) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and notable sodium content, despite providing some protein and fiber.

  • This BANQUET product scores 51/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
  • It provides 10.6g of protein and 4.71g of fiber per 100g serving.
  • A significant concern is the 588.24mg of sodium per 100g serving.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food, unlike air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables.
  • Consider this product as an occasional snack rather than a dietary staple.
  • Scores +10 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
4.71g
17% of Daily Value
Protein
10.6g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.65g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
588.24mg
26% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.7g)+5
Protein (10.6g)+6
Micronutrients (Phosphorus)+2
What holds it back
Sodium (588.2mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 51

BANQUET POPCORN CHICKEN, CHICKEN PATTY FRITTERS receives a FoodScore of 51/100, primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While the product does offer some nutritional positives, these are offset by other factors. It gains points for its fiber content, providing 4.71g per 100g, and its protein content of 10.6g per 100g. Additionally, it receives a small bonus for phosphorus. However, a notable penalty is applied due to its high sodium content, at 588.24mg per 100g. The ingredient list includes textured soy flour and soy flour as protein sources, alongside chicken. Compared to a baseline of air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, this BANQUET product contains significantly more sodium and is far more processed, offering a different nutritional profile.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in banquet popcorn chicken, chicken patty fritters actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Protein

This product contributes to daily protein intake, providing 10.6g of protein per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in muscle repair and growth, and plays a role in satiety. Including protein in snacks can help manage hunger between meals. The protein in this product comes from both chicken and textured soy flour, offering a blend of sources.

Contains Dietary Fiber

BANQUET POPCORN CHICKEN offers 4.71g of dietary fiber per 100g. Fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness, which may help with portion control. While not a primary source of fiber, this amount is notable for a snack item in this category and can contribute to your daily fiber goals.

Convenient Snack Option

For individuals seeking a quick and easy snack, this product offers convenience. Its preparation is straightforward, making it a ready-to-eat option when time is limited. While convenience is a practical benefit, it is important to consider the overall nutritional context of such items within a balanced diet.

How to eat it

BANQUET POPCORN CHICKEN is typically consumed as a snack or a component of a casual meal. A common portion is around 10 pieces, which is the declared serving size. It is often prepared by baking or microwaving and can be paired with various dipping sauces. A potential pitfall is consuming multiple servings, which can increase intake of sodium and calories.

To enhance the nutritional value, pair your serving of popcorn chicken with a large portion of non-starchy vegetables, such as a side salad or steamed broccoli.
Consider using a light dipping sauce or making your own with plain Greek yogurt and herbs to avoid adding excessive sugar or sodium.
Portion out a single serving (10 pieces) onto a plate to help manage intake and avoid overconsumption.
For a more balanced meal, serve with a whole grain side like quinoa or brown rice instead of relying solely on the popcorn chicken.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains several common allergens, including wheat, soy, and milk (from whey), which are important considerations for individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients. The ingredient list also includes BHT, a preservative. Given its high sodium content of 588.24mg per 100g, individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should consume this product in moderation. It is classified as ultra-processed, indicating a formulation that may include ingredients and processes that differ significantly from whole foods.

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Reader questions
Is BANQUET POPCORN CHICKEN, CHICKEN PATTY FRITTERS a healthy choice?
This BANQUET product scores 51/100, indicating it is a 'Decent' choice. While it provides protein and fiber, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content are factors to consider. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does BANQUET POPCORN CHICKEN compare to other frozen chicken snacks?
Compared to other frozen chicken snacks, such as Tyson Popcorn Chicken, the nutritional profile can vary. This BANQUET product offers 10.6g of protein and 4.71g of fiber per 100g, with 588.24mg of sodium. It's always best to check the nutrition facts panel of specific products for direct comparison, as formulations differ across brands and product lines.
What is 'textured soy flour' in the ingredient list?
Textured soy flour is a product made from defatted soy flour, processed to give it a meat-like texture. It is often used in products like this to enhance protein content and provide texture. In this BANQUET product, it contributes to the overall protein amount alongside the chicken.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size for BANQUET POPCORN CHICKEN is 10 pieces. Sticking to this portion size helps manage your intake of calories, fat, and sodium. Consuming multiple servings can quickly increase your intake beyond recommended daily limits for certain nutrients.
Can this product be part of a weight management plan?
Due to its calorie density and sodium content, this product should be consumed in moderation as part of a weight management plan. Focusing on the stated serving size and pairing it with low-calorie, high-volume foods like vegetables can help maintain overall calorie goals. It is not a low-calorie food.
Does this product contain artificial colors or flavors?
The ingredient list does not specifically declare artificial colors. It lists 'extractives of paprika' for color and 'flavoring' and 'spice' for taste. 'Flavoring' can sometimes refer to natural or artificial flavors, but without further specification, it's not possible to determine from the label alone if artificial flavors are present.

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