CRACKER JACK POPCORN, FRENCH VANILLA scores 16/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food. This CRACKER JACK product offers minimal nutritional value.
FoodScore: 16/100 (Avoid) due to high added sugar and ultra-processing.
Contains 37.5g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount for a snack.
Provides 3.61g of fiber per 100g, contributing a small bonus to its score.
NOVA class 4 indicates this product is ultra-processed, unlike air-popped popcorn.
Best consumed infrequently and in small portions due to its nutritional profile.
Scores -25 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
37.5g
75% of Daily Value
Sodium
571.43mg
25% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (37.5g)-25
Sodium (571.4mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 16
CRACKER JACK POPCORN, FRENCH VANILLA receives a FoodScore of 16 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its significant added sugar content, which stands at 37.5g per 100g, resulting in a substantial 25-point penalty. The product's classification as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, incurs an additional 10-point penalty. While it does contain 3.61g of fiber per 100g, earning a modest 3-point bonus, this is insufficient to offset the negative impacts of its other components. The sodium content, at 571.43mg per 100g, also contributes a 2-point penalty. Ingredients like corn syrup and sugar are primary sources of the added sugars. In contrast, a baseline like air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus would offer higher fiber, lower sodium, and negligible to no added sugars, without being ultra-processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cracker jack popcorn, french vanilla actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Fiber
This CRACKER JACK product contains 3.61g of fiber per 100g. While not a primary source, fiber is an important dietary component that can contribute to digestive regularity and satiety. Including fiber in the diet is generally beneficial for overall gut health, even when consumed from processed foods. For individuals seeking to increase their fiber intake, this product offers a small contribution.
Offers Quick Energy
With 392.86 calories per 100g, primarily from carbohydrates, CRACKER JACK POPCORN, FRENCH VANILLA can provide a rapid source of energy. This can be useful in situations requiring a quick caloric boost, such as during or after intense physical activity. However, the energy comes largely from added sugars, which can lead to rapid blood sugar spikes.
Convenient Snack Option
As a pre-packaged snack, this product offers portability and convenience. It requires no preparation and can be easily consumed on the go. For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, convenient options like this can fit into a busy lifestyle, though nutritional content should be considered when making regular choices.
CRACKER JACK POPCORN, FRENCH VANILLA scores 16/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food. This CRACKER JACK product offers minimal nutritional value.
How to eat it
CRACKER JACK POPCORN, FRENCH VANILLA is typically consumed as a standalone snack, often in a single sitting. Its sweet and salty profile makes it a popular choice for casual snacking occasions. Given its nutritional profile, mindful portion control is important.
To moderate added sugar intake, consider portioning out a small serving rather than consuming the entire package.
Pair this snack with a source of protein or healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to help balance blood sugar response.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your daily snack routine to limit intake of added sugars and sodium.
For a more nutritionally dense option, choose plain air-popped popcorn and add your own light seasoning.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with specific dietary concerns should note the ingredients in CRACKER JACK POPCORN, FRENCH VANILLA. The product contains soybean oil and soy lecithin, which are common allergens. Those with soy allergies should avoid this product. The high added sugar content, primarily from corn syrup and sugar, means this snack may not be suitable for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. The sodium content is also relatively high, which could be a concern for individuals monitoring their sodium intake for cardiovascular health. As an ultra-processed food, it contains ingredients like natural French vanilla type flavor, which contribute to its NOVA class 4 status.
Is CRACKER JACK POPCORN, FRENCH VANILLA a healthy snack?
Based on its FoodScore of 16/100, CRACKER JACK POPCORN, FRENCH VANILLA is not considered a healthy snack. Its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food are the primary reasons for its low score. It offers minimal essential micronutrients.
How does CRACKER JACK POPCORN, FRENCH VANILLA compare to other popcorn snacks?
Compared to plain air-popped popcorn, CRACKER JACK POPCORN, FRENCH VANILLA has significantly more added sugar and sodium, and is ultra-processed. For example, a brand like SkinnyPop Original Popcorn offers a much lower sodium content and no added sugar, making it a more nutritionally favorable option.
What is 'natural French vanilla type flavor' in the ingredient list?
Natural French vanilla type flavor is a proprietary blend of substances derived from natural sources, used to impart a vanilla taste. While 'natural,' these flavors are often highly processed and contribute to the product's NOVA class 4 status, meaning they are part of an ultra-processed food formulation.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 1 ounce. Given the high added sugar and sodium, adhering to this portion size is advisable to limit intake of less desirable nutrients. For a 100g serving, the added sugar alone is 37.5g, which is a significant amount for a single snack.
Can children eat CRACKER JACK POPCORN, FRENCH VANILLA?
Children can consume CRACKER JACK POPCORN, FRENCH VANILLA, but due to its high added sugar and sodium content, it should be offered infrequently and in very small portions. Excessive intake of added sugars in children's diets is linked to various health concerns. Prioritizing whole, unprocessed snacks is generally recommended for children.