SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its notable sodium content.
SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn receives a FoodScore of 40/100.
It provides 7.1g of fiber and 10.7g of protein per 100g serving.
A significant concern is the 857.14mg of sodium per 100g.
This product is a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, unlike air-popped popcorn.
Consider portion control to manage sodium and fat intake.
Scores -11 points above the snack category average (51/100 across 54 foods).
Fiber
7.11g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
10.71g
21% 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 (10.7g)+6
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (7.1g)-8
Sodium (857.1mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 40
SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn earns a FoodScore of 40 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While the product does offer some nutritional positives, such as 7.1 grams of fiber and 10.7 grams of protein per 100g, these are offset by other factors. The presence of 7.14 grams of saturated fat per 100g contributes negatively to the score. Additionally, the sodium content is considerable at 857.14mg per 100g, which is a notable detractor. The ingredient list includes vegetable oil (corn, canola, and/or sunflower oil) and maltodextrin, common in ultra-processed snacks. Compared to a reference baseline like air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn contains higher levels of fat and sodium, and is significantly more processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smartfood white cheddar popcorn actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn provides 7.1 grams of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. 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 is processed, it still offers a notable amount of fiber from the popcorn itself.
Contribution to Protein Intake
With 10.7 grams of protein per 100g, this SMARTFOOD product can contribute to your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and plays a role in various bodily functions. For a snack, this amount of protein can help with satiety, making it a more substantial option than some other snack foods that are primarily carbohydrates or fats.
Contains Essential Minerals
This popcorn provides small amounts of essential minerals, including 8% DV for calcium and 8% DV for iron per 100g. Calcium is vital for bone health, while iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood. While not a primary source, these micronutrients contribute to overall dietary intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet.
SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its notable sodium content.
How to eat it
SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn is typically consumed as a standalone snack. A common serving size is 2 1/2 cups, which is significantly less than 100g. It's often eaten during leisure activities or as a quick bite between meals. The savory flavor profile makes it a popular choice.
To manage sodium and fat intake, consider portioning out a serving into a small bowl rather than eating directly from a large bag.
Pair with a source of fresh produce, such as sliced cucumbers or baby carrots, to add vitamins and minerals to your snack.
For a more balanced snack, combine a small portion of this popcorn with a handful of unsalted nuts or a piece of fruit to increase nutrient density.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware that SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn is an ultra-processed food. The ingredient list includes natural flavors, which can be complex mixtures and may not always align with consumer expectations of 'natural.' The product contains milk ingredients (whey, buttermilk, cheddar cheese), making it unsuitable for individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. While the sodium content is high per 100g, a typical serving size will contain less, but it still contributes to overall daily sodium intake, which is a consideration for individuals monitoring blood pressure. No artificial colors or sweeteners are listed.
SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn scores 40/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it offers some fiber and protein, it is an ultra-processed food with a notable amount of sodium and saturated fat. It is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet rather than considered a primary 'healthy' food.
How does SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn compare to other snack options?
Compared to plain, air-popped popcorn, SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn contains significantly more sodium, fat, and is ultra-processed. When compared to a brand like SkinnyPop White Cheddar Popcorn, both are flavored popcorns, but specific nutritional values would need to be checked for a direct comparison. It generally offers more nutrients than a bag of potato chips but is less nutrient-dense than whole food snacks like fruits or vegetables.
What is 'natural flavors' in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural flavors' refers to flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or dairy products. These are added to enhance the taste of the product. While derived from natural sources, they are often processed and can be complex mixtures, contributing to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for this popcorn?
The declared serving size is 2 1/2 cups. Adhering to this portion size helps manage the intake of sodium and fat. Consuming larger portions frequently could lead to exceeding recommended daily limits for these nutrients, especially if other processed foods are also part of your diet.
Can I eat SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn if I am lactose intolerant?
No, SMARTFOOD White Cheddar Popcorn contains several dairy-derived ingredients, including whey, buttermilk, and cheddar cheese. These ingredients contain lactose, making the product unsuitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy.