SPECIAL K SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN POPCORN CHIPS, SWEET & SALTY
SPECIAL K SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN POPCORN CHIPS, SWEET & SALTY receives a FoodScore of 33/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its content of added sugar.
This product has a FoodScore of 33/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It contains 6.36g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its lower score.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed snack with minimal whole food components.
Compared to air-popped popcorn, this product has significantly more added sugar and sodium.
Best consumed in moderation as an occasional snack rather than a dietary staple.
Scores -8 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
4.55g
9% of Daily Value
Added sugar
6.36g
13% of Daily Value
Sodium
385.91mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (6.4g)-6
Sodium (385.9mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 33
SPECIAL K SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN POPCORN CHIPS, SWEET & SALTY earned a FoodScore of 33 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factors contributing to this score are its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4) and its content of added sugar. The product incurs a 10-point penalty for being ultra-processed, reflecting its formulation with industrial ingredients and minimal whole foods. Additionally, it contains 6.36g of added sugar per 100g, resulting in a 6-point penalty. While this amount is not excessively high for a snack, it is a notable contributor to the overall score. The sodium content of 385.91mg per 100g also incurs a 1-point penalty. The ingredient list, featuring milled corn, canola oil, and sugar, indicates a product designed for palatability rather than nutrient density. Unlike a baseline of air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables, this SPECIAL K product offers no fiber, protein, or significant micronutrients, further reducing its nutritional value.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in special k sweet & salty kettle corn popcorn chips, sweet & salty actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenient Snack Option
This product offers portability and convenience for individuals seeking a quick snack. Its individual pouch packaging makes it easy to carry and consume on the go, fitting into busy schedules. While not a nutrient-dense choice, it can serve as a readily available option when other healthier alternatives are not accessible. The formulation is designed for a satisfying taste experience, which can be a factor in snack choices.
Source of Energy
With 409.09 calories per 100g, this snack provides a source of quick energy. The primary ingredients, milled corn and canola oil, contribute to its caloric density. This can be useful for individuals needing a rapid energy boost, such as before or after light physical activity, or as part of a larger meal plan where specific caloric targets are being met. The energy comes from carbohydrates and fats, which are essential macronutrients.
Satisfies Cravings
The sweet and salty flavor profile of SPECIAL K SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN POPCORN CHIPS is designed to appeal to common snack cravings. For those seeking a specific taste experience, this product can provide satisfaction. This can be a useful tool for managing occasional cravings in a controlled manner, as part of an otherwise balanced diet, preventing overconsumption of less desirable options.
SPECIAL K SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN POPCORN CHIPS, SWEET & SALTY receives a FoodScore of 33/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its content of added sugar.
How to eat it
SPECIAL K SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN POPCORN CHIPS are typically consumed as a standalone snack between meals or as a light accompaniment. The individual pouch is designed for a single serving, making portion control straightforward for consumers.
Pair with a source of protein like a handful of nuts or a hard-boiled egg to enhance satiety and balance blood sugar.
Combine with fresh fruit or vegetable sticks to add fiber and micronutrients that are lacking in the chips.
Consider this product an occasional treat rather than a daily staple to moderate intake of added sugar and sodium.
If you enjoy the flavor, try making your own kettle corn at home with air-popped popcorn, a small amount of sugar, and sea salt to control ingredient quality.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains canola oil, which is a common vegetable oil. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals prefer to limit their intake of highly refined oils. The ingredient list also includes TBHQ for freshness, a synthetic antioxidant. While approved for use in food, some consumers prefer to avoid synthetic additives. The product contains whey, indicating the presence of milk, which is an allergen for some individuals. Given its added sugar and sodium content, individuals managing blood sugar levels or blood pressure should consume this product in moderation. There are no specific interactions or cross-contamination risks beyond common allergens noted.
Is SPECIAL K SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN POPCORN CHIPS healthy?
This product has a FoodScore of 33/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional profile. It is classified as an ultra-processed food and contains added sugar and sodium. While it provides some calories for energy, it offers minimal essential nutrients like fiber, protein, vitamins, or minerals.
How does SPECIAL K SWEET & SALTY KETTLE CORN POPCORN CHIPS compare to other popcorn snacks?
Compared to plain air-popped popcorn, this SPECIAL K product contains significantly more added sugar (6.36g per 100g) and sodium (385.91mg per 100g). While it offers a convenient, flavored option, a brand like SkinnyPop Popcorn, for example, typically offers a simpler ingredient list and lower added sugar content, making it a more nutritionally favorable choice within the popcorn snack category.
What is 'milled corn' in the ingredient list?
Milled corn refers to corn that has been processed, typically by grinding, to remove the bran and germ, leaving primarily the starchy endosperm. This process removes much of the fiber and some nutrients found in whole corn. It is a common base for many processed snack foods.
What is a reasonable portion size for this snack?
The serving size is one pouch, which is designed to be a single portion. Adhering to this portion size helps manage the intake of added sugar and sodium. Consuming multiple pouches can quickly lead to an excessive intake of these components, impacting overall dietary balance.
Can I eat this product if I am trying to lose weight?
While this product can fit into a weight management plan, it should be consumed in moderation due to its caloric density and lack of satiety-promoting nutrients like fiber and protein. Focusing on whole, unprocessed foods is generally more effective for weight management, but occasional inclusion of snacks like this, within calorie goals, is possible.