Cracker Jack'D Sweet & Salty Salted Caramel Popcorn scores 0/100 (Avoid) due to its high content of added sugar and its ultra-processed nature.
This product receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it should be avoided.
It contains 42.5g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount for a snack.
With 1360.71mg of sodium per 100g, it is high in sodium.
Classified as NOVA 4, this is an ultra-processed food with minimal nutritional value.
Consider air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus as a more nutritious alternative.
Scores -41 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
3.57g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
42.5g
85% of Daily Value
Sodium
1360.71mg
59% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (42.5g)-25
Saturated fat (10.7g)-15
Sodium (1360.7mg)-7
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 0
Cracker Jack'D Sweet & Salty Salted Caramel Popcorn receives a FoodScore of 0/100, primarily driven by its high added sugar content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. With 42.5g of added sugar per 100g, this product incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. The saturated fat content at 10.71g per 100g also contributes a significant -15 point penalty. Furthermore, the high sodium level of 1360.71mg per 100g results in a -7 point deduction. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, leading to an additional -10 point penalty, with an extra -3 points for concentrated ultra-processed fat. While it does offer 3.61g of fiber, providing a minor +3 point bonus, this is insufficient to offset the numerous penalties. Ingredients like sugar and butter are prominent, contributing to the high sugar and saturated fat. Compared to a reference baseline of air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, Cracker Jack'D offers considerably less nutritional density and significantly higher levels of added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cracker jack'd sweet & salty salted caramel popcorn 3.125 ounce plastic bag actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Quick Energy
This product, like many snacks high in simple carbohydrates from sugar, can provide a rapid source of energy. The combination of sugar and fat offers a quick caloric boost, which might be useful in situations requiring immediate energy, such as during prolonged physical activity or when a quick pick-me-up is needed. However, this energy is often short-lived due to the lack of significant protein or complex carbohydrates to sustain it.
Convenient Snack Option
Cracker Jack'D Sweet & Salty Salted Caramel Popcorn is a convenient, ready-to-eat snack that requires no preparation. Its portability makes it suitable for on-the-go consumption, fitting into busy lifestyles. While not a nutrient-dense option, its convenience can be a factor for individuals seeking a quick and accessible snack solution when other options are unavailable. This product serves its purpose as an easily accessible snack.
Source of Dietary Fiber
Despite its overall nutritional profile, this product does contain 3.61g of fiber per 100g, which contributes a small amount to daily fiber intake. Fiber is important for digestive health and can aid in satiety. While not a primary source, this fiber content is a minor positive aspect compared to snacks with no fiber, offering a small benefit to those consuming it.
Cracker Jack'D Sweet & Salty Salted Caramel Popcorn scores 0/100 (Avoid) due to its high content of added sugar and its ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
Cracker Jack'D Sweet & Salty Salted Caramel Popcorn is typically consumed as a standalone snack, often in a single sitting due to its packaging. It's a common choice for casual snacking or as a treat. Given its nutritional profile, mindful portion control is key.
To manage intake of added sugar and sodium, consider portioning out a small amount into a bowl rather than eating directly from the bag.
Pair this snack with a source of protein or healthy fats, such as a handful of unsalted nuts or a piece of fruit, to help balance blood sugar response.
Use this product as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet to limit intake of ultra-processed ingredients.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant attention. It is declared to contain milk, almond, and soy ingredients, making it unsuitable for individuals with allergies to these common allergens. The presence of artificial color may be a concern for some consumers, particularly those sensitive to food dyes. With 42.5g of added sugar per 100g, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution and in very small quantities. The high sodium content (1360.71mg per 100g) is also a significant concern for individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension. The inclusion of maltodextrin, a rapidly digested carbohydrate, further contributes to the overall sugar load.
Is Cracker Jack'D Sweet & Salty Salted Caramel Popcorn healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 0/100, this product is not considered healthy. It is an ultra-processed snack high in added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium, offering minimal essential micronutrients. It should be consumed sparingly.
How does Cracker Jack'D compare to other snack popcorns?
Compared to a plain, air-popped popcorn like Orville Redenbacher's, Cracker Jack'D has significantly more added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium. Air-popped popcorn offers whole grains with far fewer added ingredients, making it a more nutritious choice.
What is 'Enzyme Modified Butter' in the ingredient list?
Enzyme Modified Butter is a flavor enhancer derived from butter that has been treated with enzymes to develop a more intense buttery flavor. It contributes to the overall fat content and flavor profile of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
Given its high calorie, sugar, and sodium content, a reasonable portion size would be much smaller than the entire 3.125-ounce bag. Consider a small handful (around 1 ounce or 28 grams) as an occasional treat to manage intake of less desirable nutrients.
Can Cracker Jack'D be part of a balanced diet?
While technically it can be included, it should be a very infrequent and small component of a balanced diet. Its nutritional profile means it offers limited beneficial nutrients and contributes significantly to intake of added sugars and sodium, which are often over-consumed.