SMARTFOOD DELIGHT Air Popped Popcorn, Sea Salted Caramel scores 49/100 (Decent) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and notable sodium content, despite providing a good amount of fiber.
This SMARTFOOD product has a FoodScore of 49/100, categorized as Decent.
It provides a significant 14.29g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
A primary concern is its NOVA class 4 designation, indicating it is ultra-processed.
With 821.43mg of sodium per 100g, it contains considerably more than plain air-popped popcorn.
Consider portion control to manage intake of added sugar and sodium.
Scores +8 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
14.29g
51% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
5g
10% of Daily Value
Sodium
821.43mg
36% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (14.3g)+12
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (5g)-4
Sodium (821.4mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 49
SMARTFOOD DELIGHT Air Popped Popcorn, Sea Salted Caramel achieves a FoodScore of 49 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score is influenced by several factors. On the positive side, the product offers a notable 14.29g of fiber per 100g, which contributes 12 bonus points. It also provides 7.14g of protein and 2.57mg of iron, adding 3 and 2 bonus points respectively. However, significant penalties impact the overall score. The product contains 5g of added sugar per 100g, resulting in a 4-point deduction. Its sodium content of 821.43mg per 100g also leads to a 4-point penalty. A major factor in its score is its classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a substantial 10-point penalty. Ingredients like organic maltodextrin and natural flavors contribute to this classification. When compared to a baseline of plain air-popped popcorn, this SMARTFOOD SKU has added sugars and significantly higher sodium, moving it away from a minimally processed snack option.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smartfood, delight, air popped popcorn, sea salted caramel, sea salted caramel actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Dietary Fiber
This SMARTFOOD popcorn provides 14.29g of fiber per 100g, which is a significant contribution to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet can also contribute to feelings of fullness, which may assist with appetite management. This product can be a way to increase fiber intake, especially for individuals who may not consume enough from other sources.
Provides Some Protein
With 7.14g of protein per 100g, this product offers a modest amount of this essential macronutrient. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. While not a primary protein source, the protein content in this snack can contribute to overall daily intake, particularly when combined with other protein-rich foods throughout the day. This can be beneficial for satiety.
Contains Iron
This product contains 2.57mg of iron per 100g, providing 14% of the Daily Value. Iron is a vital mineral necessary for oxygen transport in the blood and for energy production. Adequate iron intake helps prevent iron deficiency, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. While this popcorn is not a primary source of iron, it can contribute to meeting daily requirements, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet rich in iron-containing foods.
SMARTFOOD DELIGHT Air Popped Popcorn, Sea Salted Caramel scores 49/100 (Decent) due to its ultra-processed nature and notable sodium content, despite providing a good amount of fiber.
How to eat it
SMARTFOOD DELIGHT Air Popped Popcorn, Sea Salted Caramel is typically consumed as a ready-to-eat snack. It's often enjoyed between meals or during leisure activities. A common portion size is 0.5 ounces, but consumers may eat more, especially from larger bags. The caramel flavor makes it a sweet and savory option.
To manage sodium and added sugar intake, measure out a single serving rather than eating directly from the bag.
Pair this popcorn with a source of healthy fats or protein, such as a small handful of unsalted nuts or a piece of fruit, to create a more balanced snack.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple due to its ultra-processed nature and ingredient profile.
For a less processed alternative, opt for plain air-popped popcorn and add a light sprinkle of cinnamon or a small amount of nutritional yeast for flavor.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware that SMARTFOOD DELIGHT Air Popped Popcorn, Sea Salted Caramel is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. This means it contains ingredients such as organic maltodextrin and natural flavors, which are common in highly processed items. The product contains milk, which is an allergen for some individuals. While the added sugar content is relatively low at 5g per 100g, the sodium content of 821.43mg per 100g is notable. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should consume this product in moderation. The use of purified stevia leaf extract provides sweetness without contributing additional sugar, but some individuals may have sensitivities to certain sweeteners.
Is SMARTFOOD DELIGHT Air Popped Popcorn, Sea Salted Caramel healthy?
This SMARTFOOD product scores 49/100, categorized as 'Decent.' While it offers a good amount of fiber and some iron, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content are factors to consider. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and with awareness of its nutritional profile.
How does SMARTFOOD DELIGHT compare to other popcorn brands?
Compared to plain, air-popped popcorn, this SMARTFOOD SKU contains added sugars and significantly more sodium due to its sea salted caramel flavoring. When compared to other flavored popcorns like some varieties from Orville Redenbacher's, its specific nutrient balance of fiber, protein, added sugar, and sodium would need to be evaluated on a per-product basis.
What is 'organic maltodextrin' and why is it in this popcorn?
Organic maltodextrin is a carbohydrate derived from corn that serves as a thickener, filler, or preservative. In this SMARTFOOD product, it likely contributes to the texture and helps carry the sea salted caramel flavor. While organic, it is still a processed ingredient and contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for this popcorn?
The declared serving size is 0.5 ounces (approximately 14g). This portion provides a specific amount of calories, fiber, and other nutrients. Sticking to this recommended serving size helps manage intake of added sugar and sodium, which are higher in this flavored popcorn compared to plain varieties.
Can I eat this popcorn if I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake?
This SMARTFOOD product contains 5g of added sugar per 100g, which is a moderate amount. It also uses purified stevia leaf extract to provide sweetness without additional sugar. If you are strictly limiting all forms of sugar, including natural sugars, you might prefer plain popcorn. For those managing added sugar, this product can be consumed in controlled portions.