FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorsnackSMARTFOOD· 1 ONZ

SMARTFOOD, POPCORN, CINNAMON BROWN SUGAR, CINNAMON BROWN SUGAR

SMARTFOOD Popcorn, Cinnamon Brown Sugar scores 38/100 (Poor) primarily due to its **added sugar** content and classification as a processed food.

  • This SMARTFOOD product received a FoodScore of 38/100 (Poor).
  • It contains 12.52g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • With 7.11g of fiber per 100g, it offers some dietary fiber.
  • Compared to air-popped popcorn, this SKU has higher calories, fat, and added sugar.
  • Portion control is important due to its calorie and sugar density.
  • Scores -3 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
7.11g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
12.52g
25% of Daily Value
Sodium
535.71mg
23% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (12.5g)-15
Saturated fat (5.4g)-4
Sodium (535.7mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 38

SMARTFOOD Popcorn, Cinnamon Brown Sugar received a FoodScore of 38 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by several nutritional factors. The product incurs significant penalties due to its added sugar content, which stands at 12.52g per 100g. This amount contributes a substantial negative impact on its overall score. Additionally, the presence of 5.36g of saturated fat per 100g and 535.71mg of sodium per 100g also led to score deductions. As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it receives a penalty for its level of processing. Ingredients like brown sugar and sugar are direct contributors to the added sugar content. While the product does receive some bonus points for its fiber content (7.11g per 100g) and protein (7.14g per 100g), these are not enough to offset the penalties. Compared to a baseline of air-popped popcorn, this SMARTFOOD SKU contains significantly more added sugar, fat, and sodium.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in smartfood, popcorn, cinnamon brown sugar, cinnamon brown sugar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Dietary Fiber

This SMARTFOOD popcorn provides 7.11g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet supports regular bowel movements and overall gut function. While this product offers fiber, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile.

Contains Some Protein

With 7.14g of protein per 100g, this snack contributes a modest amount of protein. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in muscle repair and growth, and it plays a role in satiety. While not a primary protein source, it can add to your daily protein intake, especially when combined with other protein-rich foods in a balanced meal or snack.

Provides Iron

This product offers 2.57mg of iron per 100g, which accounts for 14% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral necessary for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. Including sources of iron in your diet is important for preventing iron deficiency. While this is a notable contribution, it should be part of a varied diet that includes other iron-rich foods.

How to eat it

SMARTFOOD Popcorn, Cinnamon Brown Sugar is typically consumed as a standalone snack. Consumers often eat it directly from the bag, making it easy to overconsume. It's common in casual settings, like watching movies or as an afternoon treat.

To manage calorie and sugar intake, measure out a single serving into a bowl instead of eating directly from the bag.
Pair this popcorn with a source of lean protein or healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to create a more balanced snack.
Consider this a treat rather than a regular snack, especially if you are monitoring your added sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce added sugars in their diet, should be mindful of the 12.52g of added sugar per 100g in this product. The ingredient list includes buttermilk, indicating a dairy allergen. While generally safe for most, the combination of sugar, fat, and sodium means that excessive consumption could contribute to higher calorie intake and potentially impact dietary goals. There are no artificial colors or preservatives listed, but the presence of "natural flavor" is noted.

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Reader questions
Is SMARTFOOD Popcorn, Cinnamon Brown Sugar healthy?
SMARTFOOD Popcorn, Cinnamon Brown Sugar scores 38/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides some fiber and protein, its score is significantly impacted by its added sugar content (12.52g per 100g) and classification as a processed food. It is best considered an occasional treat rather than a staple.
How does SMARTFOOD Popcorn, Cinnamon Brown Sugar compare to other popcorn brands?
Compared to plain, air-popped popcorn, SMARTFOOD Popcorn, Cinnamon Brown Sugar contains significantly more calories, fat, and added sugar. For instance, a brand like SkinnyPop Original Popcorn, while still processed, typically has lower added sugar and sodium per serving, making it a potentially less processed alternative if you are looking for a simpler popcorn snack.
What is 'natural flavor' in this product?
The term 'natural flavor' on an ingredient list indicates a flavor derived from a natural source, such as a spice, fruit, vegetable, or meat. While derived from natural sources, these flavors are often highly processed and can be complex mixtures of various chemicals. They are used to enhance the taste of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this popcorn?
A reasonable portion size is typically defined by the manufacturer's serving size, which for this product is 1 ounce. This portion helps manage the intake of calories, added sugar, and sodium. Consuming larger portions frequently could lead to excessive intake of these components, which may not align with dietary guidelines.
Can this popcorn be part of a weight management plan?
Due to its calorie density (571.43 calories per 100g) and added sugar content, SMARTFOOD Popcorn, Cinnamon Brown Sugar should be consumed in moderation if you are managing your weight. Careful portion control is essential. Opting for less processed, lower-calorie snacks with no added sugar would generally be more supportive of weight management goals.

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Data & references