Santitas Lightly Seasoned Tortilla Chips 14.5 Ounce Plastic Bag
Santitas Lightly Seasoned Tortilla Chips achieve a FoodScore of 50/100 (Decent). The score is primarily driven by its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, alongside moderate sodium and saturated fat content.
Santitas Lightly Seasoned Tortilla Chips score 50/100 (Decent) on FoodScore.
This product contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, a positive nutritional aspect.
A significant concern is the 535.71mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to penalties.
As a NOVA 3 processed food, it offers less nutritional density than air-popped popcorn.
Portion control is important due to the calorie and sodium density of these chips.
Scores +9 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
535.71mg
23% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (3.6g)-1
Sodium (535.7mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 50
Santitas Lightly Seasoned Tortilla Chips receive a FoodScore of 50 out of 100, placing them in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of some beneficial nutrients and several factors that reduce its overall nutritional value. On the positive side, the product gains points for its fiber content, providing 3.61g per 100g, and protein at 7.14g per 100g. It also receives a small bonus for Vitamin A, contributing 40% of the Daily Value per 100g. However, several factors lead to penalties. The presence of saturated fat at 3.57g per 100g incurs a penalty. More significantly, the sodium content of 535.71mg per 100g results in a notable deduction. Furthermore, as a NOVA 3 classified processed food, it receives a substantial penalty. The ingredient list includes Vegetable Oil (Sunflower, Corn, and/or Canola Oil) and Monosodium Glutamate, common in processed snacks. Compared to a reference baseline like air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, Santitas chips are more calorie-dense and contain higher levels of sodium and fat, while offering fewer micronutrients overall.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in santitas lightly seasoned tortilla chips 14.5 ounce plastic bag actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
Santitas Lightly Seasoned Tortilla Chips provide 3.61g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to a feeling of fullness. While not a primary source of fiber, this amount can contribute to your daily intake, especially when paired with other fiber-rich foods.
Contains Protein
With 7.14g of protein per 100g, these chips offer a modest amount of this macronutrient. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and plays a role in various bodily functions. Including protein in snacks can help with satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake later in the day.
Provides Vitamin A
These tortilla chips contribute 40% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. While not typically a primary source, this contribution can help meet daily requirements, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet.
Santitas Lightly Seasoned Tortilla Chips achieve a FoodScore of 50/100 (Decent). The score is primarily driven by its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, alongside moderate sodium and saturated fat content.
How to eat it
Tortilla chips are commonly enjoyed as a snack on their own, or as a vehicle for dips like salsa, guacamole, or queso. They are also a staple in dishes like nachos. Due to their calorie and sodium density, portion control is key to fitting them into a balanced diet.
Pair with nutrient-dense dips: Opt for homemade salsa or guacamole to add vegetables and healthy fats, enhancing the overall nutritional profile.
Mind your portion size: Measure out a serving to avoid overconsumption, as the calories and sodium can add up quickly.
Use in balanced meals: Incorporate chips into a meal like a deconstructed taco salad to add crunch, ensuring you're also getting protein and vegetables.
Consider as an occasional treat: While they offer some fiber and protein, these chips are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a varied eating pattern.
Things to keep in mind
Santitas Lightly Seasoned Tortilla Chips are classified as a NOVA 3 processed food, meaning they have undergone significant processing. The ingredient list includes Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), a flavor enhancer that some individuals report sensitivity to, experiencing symptoms like headaches or flushing, though scientific evidence for widespread sensitivity is mixed. The product also contains a blend of vegetable oils, specifically Sunflower, Corn, and/or Canola Oil. While these oils are generally recognized as safe, a diet high in processed foods containing these oils may contribute to an imbalance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should be mindful of the 535.71mg of sodium per 100g.
Is Santitas Lightly Seasoned Tortilla Chips healthy?
Santitas Lightly Seasoned Tortilla Chips receive a FoodScore of 50/100, categorized as 'Decent.' While they offer some fiber and protein, and are free of added sugar, their classification as a NOVA 3 processed food and moderate sodium content mean they are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced dietary pattern.
How does Santitas compare to other tortilla chip brands?
Compared to some other tortilla chip brands, such as Tostitos Original Restaurant Style, Santitas Lightly Seasoned Tortilla Chips have a similar nutritional profile in terms of calories, fat, and sodium per 100g. The key differences often lie in specific seasoning blends and oil types. Always check the nutrition facts panel for direct comparisons.
What is Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) in these chips?
Monosodium Glutamate, or MSG, is a flavor enhancer used in many processed foods, including these chips. It is generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies. While some people report sensitivity, most scientific research has not found a consistent link between MSG consumption and adverse reactions in the general population.
What is a reasonable portion size for these chips?
A typical serving size for tortilla chips is often around 1 ounce (about 28g). At 464.29 calories per 100g, a 28g serving would be approximately 130 calories. Being mindful of this portion helps manage calorie and sodium intake, making it easier to fit into a daily calorie budget.
Can I eat these chips if I'm trying to reduce my sodium intake?
These chips contain 535.71mg of sodium per 100g, which is a moderate amount. If you are actively trying to reduce your sodium intake, it's advisable to consume them sparingly or choose lower-sodium snack alternatives. Pairing them with low-sodium dips can also help manage overall sodium consumption.