KETTLE BRAND POPCORN, SEA SALT earns a FoodScore of 80/100, indicating a very good nutritional profile, largely driven by its **fiber content** and **minimal processing**.
FoodScore: 80/100 (Very good).
Provides 10.71g of fiber per 100g, contributing to satiety.
Contains 857.14mg of sodium per 100g, which is a notable amount for a snack.
This product is a more processed option (NOVA 2) compared to plain air-popped popcorn.
A typical serving size is 1 ounce, which is smaller than the 100g nutritional reference.
Scores +39 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
10.71g
38% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
857.14mg
37% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (10.7g)+12
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
Healthy fat profile+10
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (3.6g)-1
Sodium (857.1mg)-4
Why it scores 80
KETTLE BRAND POPCORN, SEA SALT achieves a FoodScore of 80 out of 100, placing it in the 'very good' category. This score is primarily influenced by several positive factors. The product contains a significant amount of fiber, with 10.71g per 100g, which is a substantial bonus. Its protein content of 7.14g per 100g also contributes positively. The presence of iron, at 2.57mg (14% DV) per 100g, adds a micronutrient bonus. Furthermore, the healthy fat profile, characterized by a lower saturated fat content (3.57g per 100g) and the use of vegetable oil (safflower, sunflower, and/or canola oil), is beneficial. The product's classification as NOVA 2, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient, also earns a bonus for being less processed than many other snack options. However, the sodium content of 857.14mg per 100g results in a penalty, as does the saturated fat content, though to a lesser extent. Compared to a baseline of air-popped popcorn, KETTLE BRAND POPCORN, SEA SALT offers a similar fiber profile but introduces added oils and salt, which impact its overall nutritional balance.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in kettle brand popcorn, sea salt actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Dietary Fiber
This popcorn provides 10.71g of dietary fiber per 100g, which is a significant contribution to daily fiber intake. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich snacks like KETTLE BRAND popcorn can help individuals meet their recommended daily fiber goals, which can be challenging for many Americans.
Contains Beneficial Fats
The vegetable oils used in KETTLE BRAND POPCORN, specifically safflower, sunflower, and/or canola oil, contribute to a favorable fat profile. These oils are sources of unsaturated fats, which are generally considered healthier than saturated fats when consumed in moderation. While the product does contain some saturated fat, the overall fat composition is more aligned with dietary recommendations than snacks high in trans or highly saturated fats.
Provides Iron
KETTLE BRAND POPCORN, SEA SALT offers 2.57mg of iron per 100g, which accounts for 14% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. While not a primary source, this snack can contribute to your daily iron intake, especially for individuals who may need to increase their consumption of this nutrient.
KETTLE BRAND POPCORN, SEA SALT earns a FoodScore of 80/100, indicating a very good nutritional profile, largely driven by its fiber content and minimal processing.
How to eat it
Popcorn is a common snack in the US, often consumed during leisure activities or as a light bite between meals. A typical serving size for this product is 1 ounce, which is considerably less than the 100g reference used for nutritional values. Portion control is key to managing sodium and calorie intake.
To enhance satiety and nutrient density, pair a serving of KETTLE BRAND POPCORN with a source of lean protein like a handful of nuts or a small piece of fruit.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a 1-ounce serving provides a reasonable snack, but consuming larger amounts will significantly increase sodium and calorie intake.
Consider this popcorn as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple, especially if you are monitoring your sodium consumption.
For a more balanced snack, combine it with raw vegetables to add more vitamins and minerals without significantly increasing calories or sodium.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for KETTLE BRAND POPCORN, SEA SALT is its sodium content. At 857.14mg per 100g, or approximately 240mg per 1-ounce serving, regular consumption could contribute significantly to daily sodium intake, which is a concern for individuals monitoring blood pressure. The product is generally free from common allergens like dairy, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, and eggs, based on the ingredient list provided. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed. The use of vegetable oil (safflower, sunflower, and/or canola oil) is common in snack foods and generally well-tolerated. Overall, for most healthy individuals, this product does not present significant unique cautions beyond general advice on moderation for processed snacks.
KETTLE BRAND POPCORN, SEA SALT receives a FoodScore of 80/100, indicating it is a very good choice nutritionally. It offers a good amount of fiber and a favorable fat profile from its vegetable oils. However, its sodium content is notable, so portion control is important for a balanced diet.
How does KETTLE BRAND POPCORN compare to other popcorn brands?
Compared to plain air-popped popcorn, KETTLE BRAND POPCORN, SEA SALT contains added oils and salt, increasing its calorie and sodium content. When compared to other pre-packaged popcorn brands like SkinnyPop Original Popcorn, KETTLE BRAND has a higher sodium level per 100g. Always check the nutrition label for sodium and fat content when comparing brands.
What is 'vegetable oil' in the ingredients?
The ingredient list specifies that the vegetable oil used is a blend of safflower, sunflower, and/or canola oil. These are common plant-based oils that are sources of unsaturated fats. The specific blend can vary, but these oils generally contribute to a healthier fat profile compared to oils high in saturated or trans fats.
What is a reasonable portion size for this popcorn?
The declared serving size for KETTLE BRAND POPCORN, SEA SALT is 1 ounce. This portion provides a moderate amount of calories and sodium. Consuming multiple servings can quickly increase your intake of calories, fat, and sodium, so it's advisable to stick to the recommended serving size.
Can I eat KETTLE BRAND POPCORN every day?
While KETTLE BRAND POPCORN has a good FoodScore, daily consumption depends on your overall dietary pattern. Due to its sodium content, frequent large servings might contribute to exceeding daily sodium recommendations. For most people, it can be enjoyed regularly as part of a balanced diet, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense foods and consumed in moderation.