SmartFood White Cheddar Popcorn 9.5 Ounce Plastic Bag
Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn scores 54/100 (Decent) due to its notable protein and fiber content, balanced against its sodium and saturated fat levels.
This Smartfood product has a FoodScore of 54/100, placing it in the decent category.
It provides 14.29g of protein and 7.11g of fiber per 100g.
A significant concern is the 857.14mg of sodium per 100g.
Compared to air-popped popcorn, this product is more processed (NOVA 3) and higher in fat.
Consider portion control to manage sodium and fat intake.
Scores +13 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
7.11g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
14.29g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
857.14mg
37% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Protein (14.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
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What holds it back
Saturated fat (7.1g)-8
Sodium (857.1mg)-4
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 54
Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn receives a FoodScore of 54/100, categorized as 'Decent.' This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and areas for moderation. The product earns significant bonuses for its protein content, providing 14.29g per 100g, and its fiber content, at 7.11g per 100g. Additionally, it contributes 16% DV of calcium per 100g. However, several factors reduce its overall score. The presence of 7.14g of saturated fat per 100g incurs a penalty, as does the high sodium content of 857.14mg per 100g. The use of vegetable oil (corn, canola, and/or sunflower oil) contributes to the fat content. As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it also receives a penalty. While Smartfood does not contain added sugar, its sodium and saturated fat levels are considerably higher than a baseline of plain air-popped popcorn, which typically has minimal fat and sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smartfood white cheddar popcorn 9.5 ounce plastic bag 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 snacks can be a strategy to meet the recommended daily fiber intake, which many Americans fall short of.
Contribution to Protein Intake
With 14.29g of protein per 100g, this product can contribute to your daily protein needs. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in building and repairing tissues, and producing enzymes and hormones. For a snack, this is a notable amount of protein, which can help with satiety.
Source of Calcium
Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn offers 207.14mg of calcium per 100g, providing 16% of the Daily Value. Calcium is a vital mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. While not a primary dairy source, this snack can contribute to your overall calcium intake.
Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn scores 54/100 (Decent) due to its notable protein and fiber content, balanced against its sodium and saturated fat levels.
How to eat it
Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn is typically consumed as a ready-to-eat snack, often enjoyed during leisure activities or as a quick bite between meals. A common portion size is about 1 3/4 cups (28g), which is considerably less than the 100g nutrient values provided.
To enhance the nutritional profile, pair a small portion of this popcorn with fresh vegetables like carrot sticks or bell pepper slices.
Consider mixing a serving with a handful of unsalted nuts to add healthy fats and further boost fiber and protein, creating a more balanced snack.
Be mindful of portion sizes; measuring out a single serving (28g) can help manage intake of sodium and fat.
This popcorn can be a convenient option for an occasional snack, but for regular consumption, prioritize less processed alternatives like plain air-popped popcorn.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk ingredients, as declared on the label, making it unsuitable for individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. The sodium content of 857.14mg per 100g is relatively high; individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should consume this product in moderation and be mindful of portion sizes. While the product does not contain artificial colors or flavors, the 'natural flavor' listed is a broad category and its specific components are not disclosed. The NOVA class 3 designation indicates it is a processed food, which generally means it has undergone significant industrial processing.
Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn scores 54/100, indicating it's a decent option. It offers fiber and protein, but also contains notable amounts of sodium and saturated fat. Its healthfulness depends on portion size and overall dietary context. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
How does Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn compare to other snack brands?
Compared to a plain air-popped popcorn, Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn is higher in fat and sodium due to the added oils and cheese flavoring. When compared to a brand like SkinnyPop White Cheddar Popcorn, nutrient profiles can be similar, but specific ingredient lists and sodium levels may vary. Always check the nutrition facts for direct comparison.
What is 'Natural Flavor' in Smartfood popcorn?
The term 'Natural Flavor' on an ingredient list, including in Smartfood, refers to a flavor derived from a natural source, such as a spice, fruit, vegetable, or dairy product. The specific components are not required to be disclosed, but they are used to enhance the taste of the product. It is distinct from artificial flavors.
What is a reasonable portion size for this popcorn?
A reasonable portion size for Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn is about 1 3/4 cups (28g). This serving size helps manage the intake of calories, fat, and sodium. Consuming larger portions regularly would significantly increase your intake of these nutrients, potentially exceeding daily recommendations.
Can I eat Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn if I'm lactose intolerant?
No, Smartfood White Cheddar Popcorn contains 'Cheddar Cheese,' 'Whey,' and 'Buttermilk,' all of which are milk ingredients. These ingredients contain lactose, so this product is not suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy.