Smartfood White Cheddar Cheese Popcorn 2.375 Ounce Plastic Bag
Smartfood White Cheddar Cheese Popcorn scores 55/100, a 'Decent' rating, primarily due to its significant sodium content despite beneficial fiber and protein.
This Smartfood product receives a FoodScore of 55/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
A strength is its fiber content at 7.1g per 100g, contributing positively to the score.
The primary concern is the high sodium content, at 1039.29mg per 100g.
Compared to generic dairy equivalents, this product is more processed (NOVA 3) and higher in sodium.
Consider portion control due to the calorie density of 571.43 calories per 100g.
Scores +22 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Smartfood White Cheddar Cheese Popcorn achieves a FoodScore of 55 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product receives bonuses for its fiber content, providing 7.1g per 100g, and its protein content at 10.7g per 100g. It also benefits from the presence of several micronutrients, including calcium and magnesium. However, significant penalties are incurred due to its saturated fat content (7.14g per 100g) and notably high sodium level, which stands at 1039.29mg per 100g. The use of Vegetable Oil (Corn, Canola, and/or Sunflower Oil) contributes to the fat profile. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 processed food, it receives a penalty for its processing level. While Smartfood popcorn offers some beneficial nutrients, the elevated sodium and saturated fat levels prevent it from achieving a higher score when compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically has lower sodium and fat content.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smartfood white cheddar cheese popcorn 2.375 ounce plastic bag actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This popcorn provides 7.1g of fiber per 100g, which is a notable contribution to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain bowel regularity. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet may also contribute to feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in appetite regulation. This product can be a way to add fiber to a snack, especially for individuals who may not consume enough fiber from other sources.
Contains Essential Minerals
Smartfood White Cheddar Cheese Popcorn offers several essential minerals, including 213.93mg of calcium (16% DV) and 86mg of magnesium (20% DV) per 100g. Calcium is crucial for bone health and muscle function, while magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, supporting nerve and muscle function as well as energy production. These minerals contribute to overall bodily functions and can be part of a balanced mineral intake.
Provides Protein
With 10.71g of protein per 100g, this product contributes to daily protein requirements. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as the production of enzymes and hormones. Including protein in snacks can help with satiety and provide sustained energy. This makes the popcorn a more substantial snack option compared to those lacking significant protein content, supporting muscle maintenance.
Smartfood White Cheddar Cheese Popcorn scores 55/100, a 'Decent' rating, primarily due to its significant sodium content despite beneficial fiber and protein.
How to eat it
Smartfood White Cheddar Cheese Popcorn is typically consumed as a ready-to-eat snack. It is often eaten directly from the bag, either as a standalone item or alongside other foods. Common pitfalls include consuming the entire bag in one sitting, which can lead to a high intake of calories and sodium.
To manage calorie and sodium intake, consider portioning out a serving into a bowl rather than eating directly from the bag.
Pair this popcorn with a source of fresh produce, such as sliced apples or baby carrots, to add vitamins and antioxidants to your snack.
Use this popcorn as a topping for salads to add a crunchy texture and a savory flavor, while still controlling the overall portion.
For a more balanced snack, combine a small portion of popcorn with a source of healthy fats like a handful of almonds or a slice of avocado.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk as an allergen due to the presence of cheddar cheese, whey, and buttermilk, which is important for individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The high sodium content (1039.29mg per 100g) should be noted by individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension or kidney concerns. While the ingredient list does not include artificial colors or preservatives, the inclusion of Vegetable Oil (Corn, Canola, and/or Sunflower Oil) contributes to the overall fat content. There are no specific interactions or risks for other populations beyond general dietary considerations for sodium and fat.
Is Smartfood White Cheddar Cheese Popcorn healthy?
Smartfood White Cheddar Cheese Popcorn scores 55/100, which is considered 'Decent' by FoodScore standards. It offers some beneficial fiber and protein, along with certain minerals. However, its high sodium and saturated fat content are factors that prevent it from achieving a higher score. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and with attention to portion sizes.
How does Smartfood White Cheddar Cheese Popcorn compare to other popcorn brands?
Compared to plain air-popped popcorn, Smartfood White Cheddar Cheese Popcorn is higher in sodium, fat, and calories due to its cheese flavoring and added oils. For example, a brand like SkinnyPop White Cheddar Popcorn may offer a similar flavor profile but often with slightly different nutritional values, so checking the specific label for sodium and fat content is always recommended for comparison.
What is the role of 'Cheddar Cheese' in this product?
Cheddar Cheese, along with whey and buttermilk, is a key ingredient responsible for the distinctive white cheddar flavor of this popcorn. It also contributes to the protein, fat, and sodium content of the product. For individuals with dairy sensitivities, it is important to note the presence of these dairy-derived ingredients.
What is a reasonable portion size for this popcorn?
Given that 100g contains 571.43 calories and 1039.29mg of sodium, a reasonable portion size would likely be smaller than the entire 2.375-ounce bag (approximately 67g). For many, a serving of around 30-40g would provide a satisfying snack without excessive calorie or sodium intake, fitting within daily dietary guidelines.
Can I eat this popcorn if I am trying to reduce my sodium intake?
This popcorn has a high sodium content at 1039.29mg per 100g. If you are actively trying to reduce your sodium intake, this product should be consumed very sparingly or avoided. There are many lower-sodium snack alternatives available, including plain popcorn seasoned lightly or fresh fruits and vegetables.