SUN CHIPS ORGANIC ZESTY QUESO FLAVORED WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS score 45/100 (Decent). Its **whole grain content** is a positive, but this is offset by its **added sugar** and **sodium levels**.
This product has a FoodScore of 45/100, indicating it is a decent snack choice.
It provides 7.11g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to daily intake.
A serving contains 7.1g of added sugar and 607.14mg of sodium, which are notable concerns.
As a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, it differs significantly from whole food snacks like raw vegetables.
Consider portion control due to its calorie density and moderate sodium content.
Scores +4 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
7.11g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
7.1g
14% of Daily Value
Sodium
607.14mg
26% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (7.1g)-7
Sodium (607.1mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 45
SUN CHIPS ORGANIC ZESTY QUESO FLAVORED WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS received a FoodScore of 45 out of 100. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and components that warrant moderation. The product earns points for its fiber content, providing 7.11g per 100g, which is a meaningful contribution to daily fiber goals. It also contains 7.14g of protein per 100g, adding a small bonus. Furthermore, the presence of 2.5mg of iron contributes positively to its micronutrient profile. However, several factors reduce its overall score. It contains 7.1g of added sugar per 100g, primarily from organic cane sugar and organic dextrose, which incurs a penalty. The sodium content is also relatively high at 607.14mg per 100g, leading to another deduction. As a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, it receives a significant penalty, indicating a formulation that goes beyond simple processing. Compared to a baseline of air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, SUN CHIPS offers more fiber but also significantly more added sugar and sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sun chips organic zesty queso flavored whole grain snacks, zesty queso actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This product provides 7.11g of dietary fiber per 100g, primarily from its whole grain ingredients like organic whole yellow corn, organic whole wheat, and organic whole oat flour. Fiber is an important component of a balanced diet, supporting digestive regularity and contributing to satiety. Including fiber-rich foods can help manage hunger between meals. While this is a processed snack, its fiber content is a notable nutritional aspect.
Contains Whole Grains
SUN CHIPS ORGANIC ZESTY QUESO FLAVORED WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS are made with organic whole yellow corn, organic whole wheat, and organic whole oat flour as primary ingredients. Consuming whole grains is associated with various health benefits, as they retain more of the grain's original nutrients compared to refined grains. This product's formulation emphasizes the inclusion of these ingredients, offering a source of whole grains in a snack format.
Provides Iron
This snack contributes 2.5mg of iron per 100g, which is 14% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, this contribution can help meet daily iron needs, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. The iron content is a positive micronutrient aspect of this product.
SUN CHIPS ORGANIC ZESTY QUESO FLAVORED WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS score 45/100 (Decent). Its whole grain content is a positive, but this is offset by its added sugar and sodium levels.
How to eat it
SUN CHIPS are typically consumed as a standalone snack between meals or as a side with lunch. A common portion size is 14 chips, which is about 28g. Due to their calorie density and sodium content, mindful portioning is key to incorporating them into a balanced eating pattern.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair SUN CHIPS with a source of protein or healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts or a serving of plain Greek yogurt.
Measure out a single serving (14 chips) to help manage calorie and sodium intake, rather than eating directly from the bag.
Consider swapping out a portion of chips for fresh vegetable sticks like carrots or bell peppers to increase nutrient intake and reduce overall sodium.
Use SUN CHIPS as a crunchy topping for salads or chili to add texture without over-consuming a full snack portion.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several common allergens, including milk and wheat, which are explicitly listed in the ingredients. Individuals with allergies to these components should avoid consumption. The ingredient list also includes natural flavors, which can be derived from various sources, and while generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit foods containing them. The presence of organic maltodextrin and organic dextrose contributes to the added sugar content, which individuals monitoring blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consider. The sodium content of 607.14mg per 100g is moderate, so those on sodium-restricted diets should be mindful of portion sizes.
Is SUN CHIPS ORGANIC ZESTY QUESO FLAVORED WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS healthy?
This product scores 45/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers whole grains and fiber, which are beneficial. However, it also contains notable amounts of added sugar and sodium, and is classified as ultra-processed. Its healthfulness depends on portion size and overall dietary context.
How does SUN CHIPS compare to other snack chips like Lay's Classic Potato Chips?
Compared to Lay's Classic Potato Chips, SUN CHIPS ORGANIC ZESTY QUESO offers more fiber due to its whole grain base. However, both are processed snacks with comparable calorie densities and can be high in sodium. SUN CHIPS also contains added sugar, which is typically not found in plain potato chips.
What is 'organic expeller-pressed sunflower oil' and is it good for me?
Organic expeller-pressed sunflower oil is a type of vegetable oil extracted without chemical solvents, often seen as a less processed option. Sunflower oil is generally high in unsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy. However, like all oils, it is calorie-dense and should be consumed in moderation.
What is a reasonable portion size for these chips?
A reasonable portion size is listed as 14 chips, which is about 28g. This portion provides approximately 140 calories, 2g of fiber, 2g of protein, and 170mg of sodium. Sticking to this recommended serving size helps manage intake of calories, added sugar, and sodium.
Can I eat these chips every day?
While these chips offer some fiber and whole grains, their added sugar and sodium content suggest they are best enjoyed in moderation. Daily consumption, especially in large portions, could contribute to exceeding recommended limits for these nutrients. It's advisable to vary your snack choices with whole, unprocessed foods.