SUN CHIPS MULTIGRAIN SNACKS, FRENCH ONION, FRENCH ONION
SUN CHIPS MULTIGRAIN SNACKS, FRENCH ONION, FRENCH ONION scores 45/100 (Decent), primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and moderate sodium content, despite some fiber and protein.
SUN CHIPS French Onion scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore.
It provides 9.4g of fiber per 100g, contributing to daily intake.
The product is NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
Compared to air-popped popcorn, it has higher sodium and fat.
A standard serving (1.875 oz) provides 260 calories and 270mg sodium.
Scores +4 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
9.42g
34% of Daily Value
Protein
7.55g
15% of Daily Value
Added sugar
5.28g
11% of Daily Value
Sodium
509.43mg
22% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (9.4g)+12
Protein (7.5g)+3
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What holds it back
Added sugar (5.3g)-4
Saturated fat (3.8g)-1
Sodium (509.4mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 45
SUN CHIPS MULTIGRAIN SNACKS, FRENCH ONION, FRENCH ONION receives a FoodScore of 45/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, it earns 12 bonus points for its fiber content (9.4g per 100g) and 3 points for protein (7.5g per 100g), which are notable for a snack product. However, several factors reduce its score. It incurs a 4-point penalty for 5.3g of added sugar per 100g, a 1-point penalty for 3.8g of saturated fat, and a 2-point penalty for its 509.4mg of sodium. The most significant deduction is 10 points for being a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, and an additional 3 points for containing concentrated ultra-processed fat. Ingredients like maltodextrin and natural flavors contribute to its ultra-processed classification. While the product highlights 'multigrain,' its overall formulation, including added sugars and fats, positions it as a less optimal choice compared to a baseline like air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, which are minimally processed and lower in sodium and added sugars.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sun chips multigrain snacks, french onion, french onion actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
SUN CHIPS French Onion provides 9.4g of fiber per 100g, which is a significant contribution to the daily recommended intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. Including fiber-rich foods can also contribute to feelings of fullness, which may help with appetite regulation. This product's fiber comes from whole grains like whole corn, whole wheat, and whole oat flour.
Contains Whole Grains
This product is made with whole corn, whole wheat, and whole oat flour as primary ingredients. Whole grains are a source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and various micronutrients. Regular consumption of whole grains is associated with supporting overall health. While SUN CHIPS are a processed snack, the inclusion of multiple whole grains offers a nutritional advantage over snacks made with refined grains.
Provides Some Protein
SUN CHIPS French Onion contains 7.55g of protein per 100g. While not a primary protein source, this amount can contribute to your daily protein needs, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and for the production of enzymes and hormones. The protein content in this snack comes from the whole grains and ingredients like whey protein concentrate and various cheeses.
SUN CHIPS MULTIGRAIN SNACKS, FRENCH ONION, FRENCH ONION scores 45/100 (Decent), primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and moderate sodium content, despite some fiber and protein.
How to eat it
SUN CHIPS MULTIGRAIN SNACKS, FRENCH ONION, FRENCH ONION is typically consumed as a standalone snack between meals or as a side with lunch. A common portion is a single-serving bag, which provides 1.875 ounces. While convenient, it's easy to overconsume due to its palatability and the larger bag sizes often available.
Pair with a source of lean protein like a hard-boiled egg or a handful of nuts to enhance satiety and balance the snack.
Measure out a single serving (1.875 oz) into a small bowl to help with portion control and avoid overeating directly from a large bag.
Consider using these chips as a crunchy topping for salads or soups, which can add texture without making them the main component of a meal.
For a more balanced snack, combine with raw vegetables like carrot sticks or bell pepper slices to increase fiber and nutrient intake.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with milk allergies should avoid SUN CHIPS MULTIGRAIN SNACKS, FRENCH ONION, FRENCH ONION, as it contains whey protein concentrate, sour cream, butter, skim milk, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar cheese. Those with wheat sensitivities should also be aware of the whole wheat flour. The product's sodium content of 509.43mg per 100g is moderate, but individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should consume it in moderation. The presence of maltodextrin and sugar means it contributes to overall carbohydrate intake, which individuals managing blood sugar levels should consider.
Is SUN CHIPS MULTIGRAIN SNACKS, FRENCH ONION, FRENCH ONION healthy?
SUN CHIPS French Onion has a FoodScore of 45/100, indicating it's a 'Decent' choice. While it offers some fiber and protein from whole grains, it is an ultra-processed snack with moderate levels of added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and as part of an overall eating pattern rich in whole, unprocessed foods.
How does SUN CHIPS French Onion compare to other snack chips?
Compared to many traditional potato chips like Lay's Classic, SUN CHIPS French Onion often contains more fiber due to its multigrain base. However, its sodium and fat content can be comparable or even higher than some other chip varieties. It's generally a more processed option than plain air-popped popcorn, which typically has less fat and sodium.
What does 'multigrain' mean in this product?
In SUN CHIPS French Onion, 'multigrain' refers to the use of several different whole grains: whole corn, whole wheat, and whole oat flour. This means the product contains more diverse grain sources than a single-grain chip, and these grains retain their bran, germ, and endosperm, providing more fiber and nutrients than refined grains.
What is a reasonable portion size for SUN CHIPS French Onion?
A reasonable portion size is typically 1.875 ounces (about 28 chips), which is the standard serving size listed. This portion provides 260 calories, 12g total fat, and 270mg sodium. Sticking to this portion helps manage calorie, fat, and sodium intake, especially given the product's moderate energy density.
Can I eat SUN CHIPS French Onion every day?
While occasional consumption is fine, eating SUN CHIPS French Onion daily may contribute to higher intake of added sugars, sodium, and saturated fat than recommended. For daily snacking, prioritizing whole foods like fruits, vegetables, or nuts would be a more nutritionally beneficial approach. Moderation is key for ultra-processed snacks.