Smartfood Smart Foods White Cheddar scores 49/100 (Decent) due to its moderate protein and fiber content, balanced against its sodium and saturated fat levels.
Smartfood White Cheddar earned a FoodScore of 49/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
This snack provides 5.51g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
A significant concern is the 1005.56mg of sodium per 100g, which is high.
As a NOVA 3 processed snack, it is less optimal than whole-food alternatives.
Portion control is key, as the serving size is small, making it easy to overconsume.
Scores +8 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Smartfood Smart Foods White Cheddar receives a FoodScore of 49 out of 100, categorizing it as 'Decent'. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and areas of concern. On the positive side, the product gains points for its fiber content, providing 5.51g per 100g, and protein, at 11.11g per 100g. It also receives a bonus for certain micronutrients like magnesium. However, several factors reduce its overall score. The product contains 8.33g of saturated fat per 100g, which incurs a penalty. A notable detractor is the high sodium content, with 1005.56mg per 100g, contributing significantly to score reduction. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 food, it is considered processed, leading to an additional penalty. While Smartfood is made with popcorn, a whole grain, the presence of vegetable oil (corn, canola, and/or sunflower oil) and cheddar cheese contributes to its processed nature. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative like plain air-popped popcorn, this product has higher sodium and saturated fat.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smartfood smart foods white cheddar .625oz actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
Smartfood Smart Foods White Cheddar provides 5.51g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet can contribute to overall well-being. While this product is not a primary source of fiber, it can contribute to daily intake when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Contains Protein
With 11.11g of protein per 100g, Smartfood White Cheddar offers a moderate amount of this macronutrient. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and plays a role in various bodily functions. While not a high-protein food, this snack can contribute to your daily protein goals, especially when paired with other protein sources.
Provides Magnesium
This product contains 45mg of magnesium per 100g, which is 11% of the Daily Value. Magnesium is a vital mineral involved in over 300 enzyme reactions in the body, supporting nerve and muscle function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. While not a significant source, it contributes to the intake of this important micronutrient.
Smartfood Smart Foods White Cheddar scores 49/100 (Decent) due to its moderate protein and fiber content, balanced against its sodium and saturated fat levels.
How to eat it
Smartfood Smart Foods White Cheddar is typically consumed as a convenient, ready-to-eat snack. It's often eaten on its own between meals or as part of a packed lunch. The small bag size can help with portion control, but it's easy to consume multiple bags.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair a small portion of Smartfood with a source of healthy fats like a handful of almonds or a slice of avocado.
Consider combining this snack with fresh fruit or vegetable sticks to increase your fiber and vitamin intake.
Be mindful of the sodium content; if consuming Smartfood, choose lower-sodium options for other meals throughout the day.
For a more balanced snack, mix a small amount of Smartfood with plain air-popped popcorn to reduce overall sodium per serving.
Things to keep in mind
This product lists milk as an allergen due to the presence of cheddar cheese, whey, and buttermilk, making it unsuitable for individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The high sodium content, over 1000mg per 100g, is a significant consideration, particularly for individuals monitoring their sodium intake due to blood pressure concerns. While there are no artificial colors or sweeteners, the use of vegetable oils (corn, canola, and/or sunflower oil) is common in processed snacks. Overall, for most healthy individuals, this product is generally safe for consumption in moderation, but those with specific dietary restrictions or health conditions should review the ingredient list carefully.
Smartfood White Cheddar scores 49/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category according to FoodScore. It offers some fiber and protein, but also contains notable amounts of sodium and saturated fat. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and with awareness of its nutritional profile.
How does Smartfood White Cheddar compare to other popcorn snacks?
Compared to a generic brand of plain air-popped popcorn, Smartfood White Cheddar will typically have higher sodium and fat content due to the cheese and oils. For example, a bag of SkinnyPop White Cheddar Popcorn also contains cheese and oil, and would have a similar nutritional profile, often with comparable sodium levels.
What is 'Vegetable Oil' in Smartfood White Cheddar?
The 'Vegetable Oil' in Smartfood White Cheddar refers to a blend of corn, canola, and/or sunflower oil. These oils are commonly used in snack foods for cooking and flavor. They contribute to the product's fat content, including some saturated fat.
What is a reasonable portion size for Smartfood White Cheddar?
While the nutritional information is per 100g, the individual bags are typically 0.625oz (about 17.7g). This small bag size helps with portion control. However, consuming multiple bags would quickly increase your intake of calories, sodium, and fat.
Can I eat Smartfood White Cheddar if I am lactose intolerant?
No, Smartfood White Cheddar contains cheddar cheese, whey, and buttermilk. These ingredients are derived from milk and contain lactose, making this product unsuitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy.