SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SPICY JALAPENO RANCH scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its saturated fat content.
This SMARTFOOD product received a FoodScore of 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides 7.1g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its nutritional profile.
The product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to air-popped popcorn, this snack contains added fats and flavorings.
Portion control is important given its caloric density and processing level.
Scores +6 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
7.11g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
10.71g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
392.86mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Protein (10.7g)+6
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (5.4g)-4
Sodium (392.9mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 47
SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SPICY JALAPENO RANCH achieves a FoodScore of 47 out of 100. This score reflects a balance of some beneficial nutrients and several factors that detract from its overall nutritional quality. On the positive side, the product receives a bonus for its fiber content, providing 7.1g per 100g, and for its protein, at 10.7g per 100g. However, several penalties significantly impact its score. It incurs a penalty for its saturated fat content, with 5.36g per 100g. The sodium level, at 392.86mg per 100g, also contributes a minor penalty. A notable deduction comes from its classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. Additionally, the presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat from ingredients like vegetable oil (corn, canola, and/or sunflower oil) results in a further penalty. While the product contains 0g of added sugar, the overall processing and fat content differentiate it significantly from a baseline like plain air-popped popcorn, which would typically have a higher score due to its minimal processing and absence of added fats and flavorings.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smartfood popcorn, spicy jalapeno ranch actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fiber
This SMARTFOOD popcorn provides 7.1g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. While not a primary source of fiber in a balanced diet, it can add to the total intake when consumed in moderation. For context, the daily value for fiber is 28g, so a single serving contributes a modest amount.
Contains Protein
With 10.7g of protein per 100g, this snack offers a moderate amount of protein. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in various bodily functions, including muscle repair and enzyme production. While not as protein-dense as lean meats or legumes, the protein content in this popcorn can contribute to satiety, especially when consumed as part of a larger snack or meal.
Provides Iron and Calcium
This product contains 7% DV for iron and 5% DV for calcium per 100g serving. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood, and calcium is vital for bone health. While these amounts are not high, they contribute to the daily intake of these essential minerals. It's important to consider the overall diet for meeting daily micronutrient needs, but these small contributions are present.
SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SPICY JALAPENO RANCH scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its saturated fat content.
How to eat it
SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SPICY JALAPENO RANCH is typically consumed as a standalone snack. Given its flavor profile, it's often chosen for casual snacking occasions. A common portion size is 1 ounce, which is less than the 100g used for the nutritional data, so actual intake of nutrients will be lower per serving.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing a small portion of this popcorn with a source of fresh produce, such as carrot sticks or bell pepper strips.
Practice mindful eating by portioning out a serving into a bowl rather than eating directly from the bag to help manage intake.
For a more balanced snack, combine with a protein source like a handful of nuts or a small piece of cheese to increase satiety.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple due to its ultra-processed nature and fat content.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several dairy-derived ingredients, including buttermilk, whey, cream, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and Swiss cheese, making it unsuitable for individuals with a milk allergy or lactose intolerance. The ingredient list also includes maltodextrin, which is derived from corn. While generally recognized as safe, individuals with specific sensitivities to corn products should be aware. As an ultra-processed snack, it may contain natural flavors which are proprietary blends and can sometimes be a concern for those with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities. The sodium content, while not extremely high, should be considered as part of a total daily sodium intake, especially for individuals monitoring their blood pressure.
Is SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SPICY JALAPENO RANCH healthy?
This SMARTFOOD product scores 47/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it offers some fiber and protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its saturated fat content mean it's not among the highest-scoring options. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and as an occasional snack.
How does SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SPICY JALAPENO RANCH compare to other popcorn brands?
Compared to plain air-popped popcorn, this SMARTFOOD product contains added fats and flavorings, which increase its calorie and fat content. When compared to other flavored popcorns like Orville Redenbacher's SmartPop! Butter Popcorn, nutritional profiles can vary significantly based on ingredients like specific oils, sodium levels, and added sugars. Always check the nutrition facts panel for direct comparisons.
What is maltodextrin, and should I be concerned about it in this product?
Maltodextrin is a carbohydrate derived from corn, rice, potato starch, or wheat. It's used as a thickener, filler, or preservative in many processed foods. In this product, it contributes to the texture and flavor profile. For most people, it's safe to consume in moderation, but it has a high glycemic index, meaning it can cause a quick rise in blood sugar.
What is a reasonable portion size for this popcorn?
The declared serving size for SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SPICY JALAPENO RANCH is 1 ounce. This is a practical guideline for portion control. Consuming larger amounts will increase your intake of calories, fat, and sodium. To maintain a balanced diet, it's advisable to adhere to the suggested serving size rather than eating directly from a large bag.
Does this popcorn contain any artificial ingredients?
The ingredient list for SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SPICY JALAPENO RANCH includes natural flavors. While the term 'natural' is used, these are proprietary blends that can be complex. The product does not explicitly list artificial colors or artificial sweeteners, but the presence of multiple processed ingredients like maltodextrin and various forms of cheese indicates its ultra-processed nature.