FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentsnackSun Chips· 1 package

Sun Chips Sunchips Garden Salsa Multigrain Snacks 1.00 Ounce Plastic Bag

Sun Chips Garden Salsa Multigrain Snacks receive a FoodScore of 48/100 (Decent). While offering some fiber, its **ultra-processed nature** and moderate sodium content are key factors influencing its score.

  • This product scores 48/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
  • It provides a notable 7.18g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
  • The product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to air-popped popcorn, this snack has significantly more sodium and fat.
  • A single 1.0 oz package contains 142 calories, suitable for a controlled snack portion.
  • Scores +7 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
7.18g
26% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
535.71mg
23% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.2g)+9
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
What holds it back
Saturated fat (3.6g)-1
Sodium (535.7mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 48

Sun Chips Garden Salsa Multigrain Snacks achieve a FoodScore of 48 out of 100, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4), which incurs a significant penalty. On the positive side, the product earns points for its fiber content, providing 7.18g per 100g, and a modest amount of protein at 7.14g per 100g. It also receives a small bonus for Vitamin A, contributing 39% of the Daily Value per 100g. However, penalties are applied for its saturated fat content (3.57g per 100g) and sodium level (535.71mg per 100g). The presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat also contributes to a penalty. While the ingredient list begins with whole grains like whole corn and whole wheat, the overall formulation includes several ingredients such as maltodextrin, natural flavors, and various cheeses, which are common in ultra-processed snacks. In contrast to a reference baseline like air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, Sun Chips offers less nutritional density and higher levels of sodium and fat per serving.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in sun chips sunchips garden salsa multigrain snacks 1.00 ounce plastic bag actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Dietary Fiber

Sun Chips Garden Salsa Multigrain Snacks provide 7.18g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet is beneficial for maintaining regular bowel movements and supporting overall gut function. This snack can be a way to add some fiber, especially if other fiber sources are limited in a meal.

Contains Whole Grains

The primary ingredients in Sun Chips are whole corn and whole wheat, indicating the inclusion of whole grains. Whole grains contain the entire grain kernel, including the bran, germ, and endosperm, which provides more nutrients than refined grains. Consuming whole grains is associated with various health benefits, including supporting heart health and providing sustained energy. While this product is ultra-processed, it does incorporate these beneficial foundational ingredients.

Provides Vitamin A

This product contributes 39% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient known for its role in maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting cell growth. While not a primary source, this snack can contribute to your daily intake of this important micronutrient. It's a modest but notable inclusion in the nutritional profile.

How to eat it

Sun Chips Garden Salsa Multigrain Snacks are typically consumed as a standalone snack between meals or as a side with a sandwich. The 1.0-ounce bag is a pre-portioned serving, making it convenient for on-the-go consumption. Consumers often eat the entire bag in one sitting.

Pair with a source of lean protein like a hard-boiled egg or a small handful of nuts to create a more balanced snack that promotes satiety.
Combine with fresh vegetables such as carrot sticks or bell pepper slices to increase your intake of vitamins and minerals, enhancing the overall nutritional value of your snack.
Consider sharing a bag or portioning out half to manage calorie and sodium intake, especially if you are monitoring these nutrients in your diet.
Use as a crunchy topping for salads or soups in small amounts, adding texture without significantly increasing your snack portion size.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains wheat and milk ingredients, which are common allergens. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product due to the wheat content. Those with a milk allergy or lactose intolerance should also exercise caution. The sodium content, at 535.71mg per 100g, is moderate, and individuals monitoring their sodium intake for conditions like hypertension should be mindful of portion sizes. The presence of natural flavors and various cheese ingredients can be a concern for those with specific sensitivities or dietary preferences, although these are generally recognized as safe. As an ultra-processed food, it is formulated with multiple ingredients beyond basic whole foods.

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Reader questions
Is Sun Chips Garden Salsa Multigrain Snacks healthy?
Sun Chips Garden Salsa Multigrain Snacks receive a FoodScore of 48/100, classifying them as 'Decent.' While they offer some fiber and whole grains, their ultra-processed nature and moderate sodium content prevent them from scoring higher. A balanced diet emphasizes whole, minimally processed foods.
How does Sun Chips compare to other snack chips?
Compared to a plain potato chip like Lay's Classic Potato Chips, Sun Chips Garden Salsa Multigrain Snacks generally offer more fiber due to their whole grain content. However, both are ultra-processed snack foods and contain comparable levels of sodium and fat. The choice often comes down to flavor preference and specific nutritional goals.
What is maltodextrin, and why is it in this product?
Maltodextrin is a common food additive derived from starch, often used as a thickener, filler, or preservative. In Sun Chips, it likely contributes to the texture and helps carry the flavorings. While generally safe, it's a rapidly digested carbohydrate and contributes to the product's processed nature.
How many bags of Sun Chips can I eat in a day?
Given that one 1.0-ounce bag contains 142 calories and 153mg of sodium, consuming multiple bags would significantly increase your intake of calories, fat, and sodium. For most individuals, one bag as an occasional snack fits within a balanced dietary pattern. Moderation is key for ultra-processed foods.
Are the 'natural flavors' in Sun Chips a concern?
The term 'natural flavors' refers to flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruit or vegetable juice, or edible yeast. While they originate from natural sources, they are processed and can be complex mixtures. For most people, they are not a concern, but individuals with specific sensitivities might react to certain compounds within these flavor blends.
Does this product contain genetically modified ingredients?
The ingredient list includes 'Whole Corn' and 'Maltodextrin (Made From Corn).' In the US, a significant portion of corn crops are genetically modified. While the label does not explicitly state 'non-GMO,' it is possible that some corn-derived ingredients in Sun Chips Garden Salsa Multigrain Snacks are from genetically modified sources.

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