Sun Chips Sunchips Harvest Cheddar 100% Whole Grain Snacks 7 Ounce Plastic Bag
Sun Chips Sunchips Harvest Cheddar 100% Whole Grain Snacks score 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and **moderate sodium content**, despite its whole grain base.
This snack scores 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore.
It provides 7.11g of fiber per 100g, contributing to daily intake.
A significant concern is its NOVA 4 classification, indicating it is ultra-processed.
Compared to raw vegetables with hummus, this product has higher sodium and less diverse micronutrients.
Consider portion control to manage sodium intake, as 100g contains 714.29mg.
Scores +10 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
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
714.29mg
31% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
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What holds it back
Sodium (714.3mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 51
Sun Chips Sunchips Harvest Cheddar 100% Whole Grain Snacks achieve a FoodScore of 51/100, placing them in the 'Decent' category. The product earns bonuses for its fiber content, providing 7.11g per 100g, and a modest 7.14g of protein. It also receives a small bonus for iron, contributing 14% of the Daily Value per 100g. However, significant penalties are applied due to its sodium content of 714.29mg per 100g, which is moderately high. The most substantial penalty comes from its classification as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. While the label highlights '100% Whole Grain,' the presence of ingredients like maltodextrin and a blend of oils (sunflower and/or canola) contribute to its processed nature. Compared to a baseline like air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, Sun Chips are considerably higher in sodium and fat, and lower in a broader spectrum of micronutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sun chips sunchips harvest cheddar 100% whole grain snacks 7 ounce plastic bag actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Whole Grains and Fiber
Sun Chips are made with whole corn, whole wheat, brown rice flour, and whole oat flour, contributing to their '100% Whole Grain' claim. This provides 7.11g of fiber per 100g, which is beneficial for digestive health and can help promote satiety. Including whole grains in the diet is associated with various health benefits, and this product can be a way to incorporate them, especially for individuals who may not regularly consume other whole grain sources.
Provides a Moderate Amount of Protein
This snack offers 7.14g of protein per 100g. While not a primary protein source, this amount can contribute to the feeling of fullness, especially when consumed as part of a balanced snack. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and incorporating snacks with some protein can help manage hunger between meals. The protein content here comes from the whole grains and dairy ingredients like cheddar cheese and whey protein concentrate.
Contains Iron
Sun Chips provide 2.5mg of iron per 100g, which is 14% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While this product is not a significant source of all micronutrients, its contribution to iron intake can be a small benefit, particularly for individuals looking to increase their dietary iron from various food sources.
Sun Chips Sunchips Harvest Cheddar 100% Whole Grain Snacks score 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and moderate sodium content, despite its whole grain base.
How to eat it
Sun Chips Sunchips Harvest Cheddar are typically consumed as a standalone snack, often in single-serving bags or from a larger bag. They are a common choice for quick hunger satisfaction or as an accompaniment to sandwiches. Portion control is key due to their sodium content.
Pair with fresh vegetables like carrot sticks or cucumber slices to add volume and micronutrients without significantly increasing sodium.
Combine with a source of lean protein, such as a small handful of unsalted nuts or a hard-boiled egg, to enhance satiety and balance the snack.
Measure out a single serving (about 15 chips) into a bowl to avoid overconsumption directly from the bag, which helps manage calorie and sodium intake.
Consider these chips as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple, especially if you are monitoring your sodium levels.
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 dairy allergies or lactose intolerance should also exercise caution due to the presence of milk, cheddar cheese, and whey. The NOVA 4 classification indicates this is an ultra-processed food, which means it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients like natural flavors and maltodextrin. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of ultra-processed items. The sodium content of 714.29mg per 100g is moderate, and individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should be mindful of portion sizes.
Sun Chips Sunchips Harvest Cheddar score 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. While they offer whole grains, fiber, and some protein, they are classified as an ultra-processed food and contain a moderate amount of sodium. They can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and with attention to portion sizes.
How does Sun Chips compare to other snack chips?
Compared to a plain potato chip like Lay's Classic Potato Chips, Sun Chips often contain more fiber due to their whole grain base. However, both are typically ultra-processed snacks and can be high in sodium and fat. The specific nutritional profile will vary by flavor and brand, so checking individual labels is always recommended.
What does '100% Whole Grain' mean for this product?
The '100% Whole Grain' claim indicates that all the grain ingredients used in Sun Chips Sunchips Harvest Cheddar are whole grains, such as whole corn and whole wheat. This means they contain the bran, germ, and endosperm, providing more fiber and nutrients than refined grains. However, this claim does not negate the product's overall processing level or other nutritional considerations like sodium.
What is a reasonable portion size for Sun Chips?
A reasonable portion size for Sun Chips Sunchips Harvest Cheddar is about 15 chips (28g), as indicated on the label. This serving provides approximately 140 calories and around 200mg of sodium. Sticking to this portion helps manage calorie and sodium intake, especially given the product's overall nutritional profile.
Can I eat Sun Chips every day?
While Sun Chips Sunchips Harvest Cheddar can be part of a varied diet, daily consumption, especially in large amounts, may contribute to higher intake of sodium and calories from an ultra-processed food. For optimal health, it's generally recommended to prioritize whole, minimally processed foods and consume snacks like these in moderation.