SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN scores 25/100 (Avoid) due to its significant contribution of added sugar, which is the primary factor driving its low score.
This SMARTFOOD product scores 25/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
A serving contains 27.5g of added sugar, a major contributor to its low score.
It is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to air-popped popcorn, this SKU has considerably more added sugar and sodium.
Portion control is important to manage intake of added sugars and calories.
Scores -16 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
7.11g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
3.57g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
27.5g
55% of Daily Value
Sodium
392.86mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (27.5g)-25
Sodium (392.9mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 25
SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN receives a FoodScore of 25 out of 100, primarily due to its high added sugar content. With 27.5g of added sugar per 100g, this significantly impacts the overall nutritional profile, leading to a substantial penalty of -25 points. The product also incurs a -10 point penalty for being classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. While it does offer some fiber, contributing +9 points for 7.11g per 100g, and a small amount of calcium (11% DV), adding +2 points, these benefits are outweighed by the penalties. The ingredient list includes corn syrup and sugar early on, confirming the source of the added sugars. Compared to a baseline of air-popped popcorn, which typically contains no added sugar or significant sodium, this SMARTFOOD product presents a much higher caloric density and a less favorable nutritional balance.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smartfood popcorn, sweet & salty kettle corn actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fiber
This SMARTFOOD popcorn provides 7.11g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber intake. Fiber is an important dietary component that supports digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. While this product is not a primary source of fiber, it can add to the total intake when consumed as part of a balanced diet. The fiber content comes from the popcorn kernels themselves.
Provides Calcium
SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN offers 11% of the Daily Value for calcium per 100g. Calcium is an essential mineral known for its role in bone health and various bodily functions. While not a significant source, this contribution can be a small part of meeting daily calcium needs, especially for individuals looking to diversify their dietary sources of this mineral.
Convenient Snack Option
As a pre-packaged snack, this product offers convenience and portability, making it an option for on-the-go consumption. For individuals seeking a quick snack that requires no preparation, it can fit into a busy lifestyle. However, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile when incorporating such convenient options regularly into one's diet.
SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN scores 25/100 (Avoid) due to its significant contribution of added sugar, which is the primary factor driving its low score.
How to eat it
This kettle corn is typically consumed as a standalone snack, often during leisure activities or as a treat. Its sweet and salty flavor profile makes it a popular choice for those seeking a crunchy indulgence. Common pitfalls include consuming large portions, which can quickly add up in calories and added sugar.
To manage added sugar intake, consider pairing a small portion of this kettle corn with unsweetened nuts or seeds.
Use a measuring cup to portion out a single serving to avoid overconsumption and help control calorie intake.
For a more balanced snack, combine a small amount of this popcorn with a piece of fruit or a serving of plain Greek yogurt.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack due to its ultra-processed nature and added sugar content.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with specific dietary concerns should note the ingredient list. The presence of soy lecithin means this product contains a common allergen, soy, which is relevant for those with soy allergies. The high added sugar content (27.5g per 100g) should be considered by individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce overall sugar consumption. As an ultra-processed food, it may not align with dietary patterns emphasizing whole or minimally processed foods. The sodium content, while not extremely high, still contributes to daily intake, which is a consideration for those managing blood pressure.
Is SMARTFOOD POPCORN, SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN healthy?
This SMARTFOOD product scores 25/100, indicating it is not a nutritionally optimal choice for regular consumption. Its high added sugar content and ultra-processed classification are the main factors contributing to this score. While it provides some fiber and calcium, these benefits are outweighed by the less favorable aspects of its nutritional profile.
How does SMARTFOOD Kettle Corn compare to other popcorn brands?
Compared to plain, air-popped popcorn, SMARTFOOD Kettle Corn has significantly more added sugar and sodium. For instance, a brand like Orville Redenbacher's SmartPop! 94% Fat Free Butter Popcorn, while still processed, often has lower added sugar. When evaluating popcorn, look for options with minimal added sugars and sodium to make a more nutritionally sound choice.
What is 'natural flavors' in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural flavors' refers to flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or animal products. While derived from natural sources, these flavors are often highly processed and concentrated to achieve a specific taste profile. Their presence contributes to the product's NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food.
What is a reasonable portion size for this kettle corn?
The serving size listed is 1 ounce (approximately 28g). This portion contains about 140 calories and a notable amount of added sugar. Sticking to this defined serving size can help manage calorie and sugar intake, especially if you are monitoring your overall diet. Consuming larger portions will proportionally increase your intake of these components.
Can I eat this if I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake?
Given that this product contains 27.5g of added sugar per 100g, it is not ideal for those actively trying to reduce their sugar intake. A single serving still contributes significantly to daily sugar limits. If you are focused on reducing sugar, it would be best to choose unsweetened snack alternatives or consume this product very sparingly as an occasional treat.