POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS, SPICY QUESO receives a FoodScore of 46/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its **processed nature** and **sodium content**.
FoodScore: 46/100 (Decent) for POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS, SPICY QUESO.
Contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, a positive attribute for a snack.
High in sodium with 642.86mg per 100g, contributing to a penalty of -2 points.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating a significant degree of industrial processing.
Offers 7.14g of protein per 100g, providing a slight bonus to its overall score.
Scores +5 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
642.86mg
28% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (7.1g)+3
−
What holds it back
Sodium (642.9mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 46
POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS, SPICY QUESO achieves a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of some beneficial components and several nutritional drawbacks. The product receives a +3 bonus for its protein content, providing 7.14g per 100g, which can contribute to satiety. However, it incurs a -2 penalty due to its high sodium level of 642.86mg per 100g, which is a considerable amount for a snack food. A more significant penalty of -5 points is applied because it is classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food. While the product contains 0g of added sugar, which is a positive aspect, it also lacks dietary fiber, with 0g per 100g. The ingredient list includes sunflower oil, whey, and natural flavors, common in processed snacks. Compared to a reference baseline like air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS offers less fiber and significantly more sodium and fat, while providing a similar or slightly higher protein content than air-popped popcorn alone.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pop corners spicy queso chips, spicy queso actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Source of Protein
This product provides 7.14g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in muscle repair and growth, and consuming adequate amounts can help with satiety. While not a primary protein source, POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS can offer a modest contribution when consumed as part of a balanced diet, especially for individuals looking to increase protein in their snacks.
No Added Sugars
One notable aspect of POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS is the absence of added sugars in its formulation. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting intake of added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories. Choosing snacks without added sugars can help in managing overall sugar consumption and supporting a healthier dietary pattern. This makes it a better choice than many other snack options that often contain significant amounts of added sweeteners.
Provides Some Minerals
While not a rich source, this product contributes some essential minerals to the diet. Per 100g, it offers 346.07mg of potassium (7% DV) and 78.93mg of calcium (6% DV). Potassium plays a role in maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure, while calcium is crucial for bone health. These contributions, though modest, can be part of a varied diet that includes a range of nutrient-dense foods.
POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS, SPICY QUESO receives a FoodScore of 46/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its processed nature and sodium content.
How to eat it
POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS are typically consumed as a standalone snack. They are often eaten directly from the bag, making portion control important. Given their savory flavor profile, they can also be paired with other foods to create a more balanced snack or meal component.
To improve the nutritional balance, pair a serving of POP CORNERS with a source of fiber and healthy fats, such as sliced avocado or a handful of nuts.
Measure out a single serving (1 oz) into a small bowl to help manage calorie and sodium intake, rather than eating directly from the larger bag.
Consider using these chips as a crunchy topping for salads or chili to add texture and flavor, while still controlling the portion size.
For a more complete snack, combine with a protein source like a hard-boiled egg or a small serving of plain Greek yogurt to enhance satiety.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains whey and cheddar cheese, indicating the presence of milk, which is a common allergen. Individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance should avoid this product. The sodium content, at 642.86mg per 100g, is relatively high. Consumers monitoring their sodium intake, particularly those with hypertension or kidney concerns, should consume this product in moderation. The use of natural flavors means the exact components are not disclosed, which may be a consideration for individuals with specific sensitivities, though generally these are considered safe. Overall, for most healthy adults, this product does not present unusual cautions beyond typical considerations for processed snack foods.
POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS has a FoodScore of 46/100, classifying it as 'Decent'. While it contains no added sugar and offers some protein, its high sodium content and classification as a processed food (NOVA 3) mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is not a primary source of essential vitamins or fiber.
How does POP CORNERS compare to other snack chips like Lay's Classic Potato Chips?
Compared to Lay's Classic Potato Chips, POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS offers a similar calorie count but generally has a slightly higher protein content and no added sugar, whereas some potato chip varieties may contain small amounts of added sugar. Both are processed snacks with notable sodium levels. The choice often comes down to flavor preference and specific nutritional goals.
What is 'natural flavors' in the ingredient list?
Natural flavors are food additives derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or meat. Their purpose is to enhance the flavor of the food. While they originate from natural sources, they undergo processing and can be complex mixtures. For most consumers, they are not a concern, but individuals with specific sensitivities might prefer products without them.
What is a reasonable portion size for these chips?
The declared serving size for POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS is 1 ounce (approx. 28g). This portion provides about 120 calories and around 180mg of sodium. Sticking to this single serving size is key for moderation, especially given the product's sodium content. Consuming larger portions will significantly increase your intake of calories, fat, and sodium.
Can I eat POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS every day?
While occasional consumption of POP CORNERS SPICY QUESO CHIPS can fit into a balanced diet, daily consumption, especially in large quantities, may contribute to excessive sodium intake and displace more nutrient-dense foods. It's generally advisable to vary your snack choices and prioritize whole, unprocessed foods for daily intake.