STACY'S BAKED PITA CHIPS, TOASTED CHEDDAR scores 45/100 (Decent) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite some protein and fiber.
This product received a FoodScore of 45/100, indicating a Decent nutritional profile.
It provides 14.3g of protein and 3.6g of fiber per 100g, contributing to satiety.
A significant concern is the high sodium content at 1178.6mg per 100g.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs substantially from whole food baselines like air-popped popcorn.
Consider portion control due to its calorie density and sodium level.
Scores +4 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
14.29g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1178.57mg
51% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (14.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (3.6g)-1
Sodium (1178.6mg)-6
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 45
STACY'S BAKED PITA CHIPS, TOASTED CHEDDAR achieves a FoodScore of 45 out of 100. This score reflects a balance of some beneficial nutrients against the impact of processing and certain less desirable components. The product receives bonuses for its protein content, providing 14.3g per 100g, and a modest amount of fiber at 3.6g. It also gains points for iron, contributing 22% of the Daily Value. However, significant penalties are applied due to its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which subtracts 10 points. The high sodium content, at 1178.6mg per 100g, is another major detractor, leading to a 6-point penalty. Additionally, the presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat incurs a 3-point penalty, and the saturated fat content of 3.6g per 100g results in a minor penalty. Ingredients like enriched wheat flour and sunflower oil and/or canola oil are typical in such processed snacks. Compared to a baseline like air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, STACY'S pita chips are considerably more processed and higher in sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in stacy's baked pita chips, toasted cheddar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
STACY'S BAKED PITA CHIPS, TOASTED CHEDDAR provides 14.3g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in muscle repair and growth. While not a primary protein source, this amount can help make a snack more satisfying, especially when paired with other protein-rich foods like hummus or Greek yogurt. The protein primarily comes from the enriched wheat flour and the cheddar and parmesan cheeses.
Contains Dietary Fiber
With 3.6g of fiber per 100g, STACY'S pita chips offer a modest contribution to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it is more than many other snack chips. Including fiber in snacks can help slow digestion and contribute to a feeling of fullness, potentially reducing overall calorie intake later.
Provides Iron
This product contains 3.93mg of iron per 100g, which is 22% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While not a primary source, this contribution can be beneficial, particularly for individuals who may struggle to meet their iron needs. The iron is likely fortified into the enriched wheat flour, making it a more accessible nutrient in this snack.
STACY'S BAKED PITA CHIPS, TOASTED CHEDDAR scores 45/100 (Decent) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite some protein and fiber.
How to eat it
STACY'S BAKED PITA CHIPS, TOASTED CHEDDAR are typically consumed as a snack, often paired with dips like hummus or salsa, or used as a crunchy accompaniment to sandwiches and salads. A common portion is 7 chips, which is about 28g. It's easy to overconsume these chips due to their palatability and small serving size.
Pair these pita chips with nutrient-dense dips like homemade hummus, guacamole, or a Greek yogurt-based dip to add more fiber, healthy fats, and protein.
Measure out a single serving (7 chips) to help manage calorie and sodium intake, rather than eating directly from the bag.
Consider using them as a crunchy topping for salads or soups instead of a standalone snack to add texture without excessive consumption.
For a lower sodium and less processed alternative, opt for whole-grain crackers or air-popped popcorn seasoned lightly at home.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with wheat, milk, or gluten allergies or sensitivities should be aware that STACY'S BAKED PITA CHIPS, TOASTED CHEDDAR contains enriched wheat flour, wheat gluten, milk, and cheese cultures. The product is also classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which means it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients not typically found in home kitchens, such as maltodextrin and various natural flavors. While generally safe for consumption, the high sodium content (1178.57mg per 100g) means individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should consume this product in moderation and be mindful of portion sizes.
Is STACY'S BAKED PITA CHIPS, TOASTED CHEDDAR healthy?
STACY'S BAKED PITA CHIPS, TOASTED CHEDDAR has a FoodScore of 45/100, which is considered Decent. It offers some protein and fiber, but it is also an ultra-processed food with a high sodium content. As part of a balanced diet, it can be consumed in moderation, but it's not a primary source of essential nutrients.
How does STACY'S BAKED PITA CHIPS compare to other snack chips?
Compared to many other snack chips, STACY'S BAKED PITA CHIPS, TOASTED CHEDDAR offers a slightly higher protein and fiber content. However, its sodium level is comparable to or higher than some other popular brands like Lay's Classic Potato Chips. For a less processed option, consider whole-grain crackers or plain air-popped popcorn.
What is 'enriched wheat flour' in STACY'S pita chips?
Enriched wheat flour is wheat flour that has had certain nutrients, such as niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid, added back after processing. This process helps to restore some of the nutrients lost during the milling of the grain, making it a more nutritionally complete flour.
What is a reasonable portion size for these pita chips?
The recommended serving size for STACY'S BAKED PITA CHIPS, TOASTED CHEDDAR is 7 chips, which is approximately 28g. This portion provides about 130 calories and a significant amount of sodium. Sticking to this portion size can help manage overall calorie and sodium intake, especially when pairing with other foods.
Can I use STACY'S pita chips as a substitute for bread?
While STACY'S pita chips can provide a crunchy base for toppings similar to bread, they are not a direct nutritional substitute. They are higher in sodium and fat per serving compared to many types of bread and are more processed. For a more nutritionally comparable option, consider whole-grain bread or whole-wheat pita bread.