FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentsnackPAQUI· 1 ONZ

PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT

PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT scores 57/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its notable fiber content is a positive, but its sodium level is a significant factor in its overall score.

  • PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT earns a FoodScore of 57/100 (Decent).
  • This product provides 7.11g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
  • A serving contains 678.57mg of sodium per 100g, which is a considerable amount.
  • As a NOVA class 3 processed snack, it differs from whole food options like raw vegetables.
  • Consider portion control to manage sodium intake when consuming this product.
  • Scores +16 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
7.11g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
678.57mg
30% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A)+4
What holds it back
Saturated fat (3.6g)-1
Sodium (678.6mg)-3
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 57

PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT receives a FoodScore of 57/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score is influenced by a combination of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product gains 9 points for its fiber content, providing 7.11g per 100g, and an additional 3 points for its protein at 7.14g per 100g. Micronutrient contributions, specifically iron (14% DV) and Vitamin A (40% DV), add 4 points. However, several factors reduce the score. The presence of 3.57g of saturated fat incurs a 1-point penalty. A more significant penalty of 3 points is applied due to the sodium content, which is 678.57mg per 100g. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 product, indicating it is processed, it receives a 5-point penalty. Ingredients like expeller-pressed canola oil and natural flavor are common in processed snacks. Compared to a baseline of air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, PAQUI chips are more calorie-dense and higher in sodium, while offering fewer diverse micronutrients.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in paqui tortilla chips, freakin' hot actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Dietary Fiber

PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT provides 7.11g of fiber per 100g, which is a notable amount for a snack product. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain regularity and contribute to feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet can support overall well-being. This product can contribute to your daily fiber intake, especially when paired with other fiber sources.

Contains Iron and Vitamin A

This product contributes to your intake of certain micronutrients, specifically iron and Vitamin A. Per 100g, it provides 14% of the Daily Value for iron and 40% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A. Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production, while Vitamin A plays a role in vision and immune function. While not a primary source, these contributions can supplement your diet.

Satisfying Snack Option

For individuals seeking a snack with a distinct flavor profile and a satisfying texture, PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT can serve that purpose. The combination of ground corn and expeller-pressed canola oil provides a crunchy texture and a caloric density that can help satiate hunger between meals. Its bold flavor, derived from ingredients like ghost pepper and cayenne pepper, offers a unique taste experience.

How to eat it

PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT are typically consumed as a standalone snack. Given their intense flavor, they are often eaten in smaller quantities. Common pitfalls include overconsumption due to their palatability and high sodium content.

To balance the snack, pair a small portion of PAQUI chips with fresh vegetables like cucumber or bell pepper sticks.
Consider using these chips as a crunchy topping for salads or chili to add flavor and texture without consuming a large serving.
Measure out a single serving (1 oz) to help manage calorie and sodium intake, as portion control is key with processed snacks.
Avoid consuming large bags in one sitting; instead, transfer a small amount to a bowl to prevent mindless eating.
Alternate with less processed snacks like air-popped popcorn or fruit to diversify your nutrient intake.
Things to keep in mind

The primary caution for PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT relates to its sodium content, which is 678.57mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension or kidney concerns, should consume this product in moderation. The use of ghost pepper and cayenne pepper indicates a high level of spice, which may cause digestive discomfort for some individuals, especially those with sensitive stomachs or conditions like IBS. The ingredient list does not declare common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg, but cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing facilities. Overall, for most healthy adults, this product is safe when consumed as part of a balanced diet, with attention to portion sizes.

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Reader questions
Is PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT healthy?
PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT scores 57/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it offers some fiber and micronutrients like iron and Vitamin A, it is a processed snack high in sodium. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and with attention to portion sizes, but it is not a primary source of essential nutrients.
How does PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT compare to other tortilla chips?
Compared to many other tortilla chip brands like Doritos Nacho Cheese, PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT has a comparable calorie and fat profile, but its fiber content of 7.11g per 100g is often higher than some competitors. However, its sodium level of 678.57mg per 100g is also significant, similar to or higher than many other flavored tortilla chips. Always check the nutrition facts panel for specific comparisons.
What is 'natural flavor' in PAQUI chips?
The term 'natural flavor' on an ingredient list, such as in PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT, refers to a substance derived from a spice, fruit or fruit juice, vegetable or vegetable juice, edible yeast, herb, bark, bud, root, leaf or similar plant material, meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, dairy products, or fermentation products thereof, whose significant function in food is flavoring rather than nutritional. The exact components are proprietary to the manufacturer.
What is a reasonable portion size for these chips?
The declared serving size for PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT is 1 ounce. To manage calorie and sodium intake, it is advisable to stick to this portion size. Consuming larger amounts can quickly increase your intake of calories, fat, and sodium, which may not align with dietary guidelines for regular consumption.
Can children eat PAQUI TORTILLA CHIPS, FREAKIN' HOT?
Given the 'Freakin' Hot' designation, these chips contain significant levels of ghost pepper and cayenne pepper. The intense spice level may be too strong for children and could cause discomfort or digestive upset. Additionally, the sodium content is high for children's dietary needs. It is generally recommended to offer children snacks with milder flavors and lower sodium.

Explore more

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Data & references