FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsnackOFF THE EATEN PATH· 1 ONZ

OFF THE EATEN PATH KETTLE CORN, CRANBERRY & GRANOLA

OFF THE EATEN PATH KETTLE CORN, CRANBERRY & GRANOLA scores 18/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.

  • This product received a FoodScore of 18/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
  • It contains 35g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
  • With 3.61g of fiber per 100g, it offers a modest amount of dietary fiber.
  • As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs substantially from whole-food snack alternatives.
  • Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a regular part of your diet.
  • Scores -23 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
35g
70% of Daily Value
Sodium
213.93mg
9% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
What holds it back
Added sugar (35g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 18

OFF THE EATEN PATH KETTLE CORN, CRANBERRY & GRANOLA received a FoodScore of 18 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, at 35g per 100g, which resulted in a significant penalty of -25 points. Ingredients such as sugar, corn syrup, and dextrose are listed early, indicating their prominence. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, incurring a -10 point penalty. While it does provide 3.6g of fiber per 100g, earning a +3 bonus, this is insufficient to offset the penalties. The product contains minimal amounts of beneficial micronutrients, with 0% DV for potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and various vitamins. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, such as plain air-popped popcorn or a piece of fruit, this product offers a less favorable nutritional profile due to its high sugar load and processing level.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in off the eaten path kettle corn, cranberry & granola actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides Dietary Fiber

OFF THE EATEN PATH KETTLE CORN, CRANBERRY & GRANOLA contains 3.61g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it does offer some fiber, which is a beneficial component often lacking in highly processed snacks. Including fiber in the diet supports regular bowel movements and can help manage blood sugar levels.

Source of Energy

With 428.57 calories per 100g, this product provides a concentrated source of energy. This can be useful for individuals who require a quick energy boost, such as before or after light physical activity, or as part of a larger meal for those with higher energy needs. The combination of carbohydrates from sugar and corn syrup, along with fats from vegetable oil, contributes to its caloric density.

Convenient Snack Option

This product offers convenience as a ready-to-eat snack. For individuals with busy schedules, having a pre-packaged option can be practical. While its nutritional profile suggests moderation, its ease of access means it can serve as a quick grab-and-go item when other, more nutrient-dense options are not readily available. The OFF THE EATEN PATH brand aims for convenience in its snack offerings.

How to eat it

This kettle corn snack is typically consumed directly from the bag as a standalone snack. It's often eaten between meals or as a treat. A common pitfall is consuming multiple servings due to its palatability and portion size.

To improve the nutritional balance, pair a small portion of this snack with a source of protein or healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit.
Measure out a single serving (1 oz) into a bowl to help with portion control and avoid overconsumption.
Consider this product for occasional enjoyment rather than a daily snack to manage added sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals with allergies should note that this product contains soy lecithin and skim milk, indicating the presence of soy and milk allergens. It also contains whole wheat, which is a common allergen. The high amount of added sugar (35g per 100g) means that individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very limited quantities. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which suggests a formulation that may include ingredients like maltodextrin and natural flavors, which some individuals prefer to limit in their diet. While generally safe for most, its nutritional density in sugar warrants mindful consumption.

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Reader questions
Is OFF THE EATEN PATH KETTLE CORN, CRANBERRY & GRANOLA healthy?
This product received a FoodScore of 18/100, indicating it is categorized as an 'Avoid' choice. Its nutritional profile is significantly impacted by high added sugar content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it does offer some fiber, it lacks substantial amounts of essential micronutrients.
How does OFF THE EATEN PATH KETTLE CORN, CRANBERRY & GRANOLA compare to other snack options?
Compared to a whole-food snack like plain air-popped popcorn or a piece of fruit, this product contains significantly more added sugar and is ultra-processed. When compared to other branded kettle corn snacks like Angie's BOOMCHICKAPOP Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn, the nutritional profiles can vary, but many similar products also tend to be high in added sugars.
What is 'maltodextrin' in the ingredient list?
Maltodextrin is a carbohydrate derived from corn (as stated on the label) or potato, used as a thickener, filler, or preservative in many processed foods. It has a high glycemic index, meaning it can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. Its presence contributes to the overall carbohydrate and caloric content of the snack.
What is a recommended serving size for this product?
The recommended serving size is 1 ounce. Adhering to this portion size is important for managing intake, especially given the product's high calorie and added sugar content. Consuming larger portions will significantly increase your intake of these components.
Can this product be part of a balanced diet?
While no single food needs to be entirely excluded, this product's nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed in moderation and infrequently as part of a balanced diet. Prioritizing whole, minimally processed foods for most of your snack choices will better support overall nutritional goals.

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Data & references