Sun Chips Sunchips Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks 2.75 Ounce Plastic Bag
Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks receive a FoodScore of 51/100 (Decent). Its **multigrain base** contributes fiber and protein, but the **sodium content** and **ultra-processed nature** are notable factors.
Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks scored 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore.
Each 100g provides 7.11g of fiber and 7.14g of protein.
A significant concern is the 714.29mg of sodium per 100g.
This product is classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), unlike air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables.
Consider portion control to manage sodium intake when consuming this snack.
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 Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks achieved a FoodScore of 51 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The product benefits from its multigrain composition, with whole corn, whole wheat, brown rice flour, and whole oat flour contributing 7.11g of fiber per 100g, earning a +9 bonus. It also provides 7.14g of protein per 100g, adding a +3 bonus. Furthermore, the iron content, at 2.5mg (14% DV), contributed a +2 bonus. However, significant penalties were applied due to its sodium content of 714.29mg per 100g, resulting in a -3 penalty. The classification as NOVA 4, indicating an ultra-processed food, incurred a substantial -10 penalty. Ingredients like maltodextrin and natural flavors are common in ultra-processed snacks. Compared to a baseline of air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, which are minimally processed and typically lower in sodium, Sun Chips presents a more processed option with higher sodium levels, despite its fiber and protein contributions.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sun chips sunchips harvest cheddar multigrain snacks 2.75 ounce plastic bag actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks provide 7.11g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Fiber is an important component of a balanced diet, supporting digestive regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. The inclusion of whole corn, whole wheat, brown rice flour, and whole oat flour in the ingredient list contributes to this fiber content. Incorporating fiber-rich foods can be part of a strategy to meet the recommended daily intake.
Contribution to Protein Intake
With 7.14g of protein per 100g, this product offers a modest contribution to your protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and plays a role in various bodily functions. While not a primary protein source, the protein from the multigrain ingredients and dairy components like cheddar cheese and whey protein concentrate can add to your overall daily protein consumption. This can be beneficial when looking for snacks that offer more than just carbohydrates.
Contains Iron
Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks contain 2.5mg of iron per 100g, which is 14% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport throughout the body and plays a role in energy metabolism. While not a significant source, this amount can contribute to your daily iron intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. The iron content is likely derived from the whole grain ingredients present in the snack.
Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks receive a FoodScore of 51/100 (Decent). Its multigrain base contributes fiber and protein, but the sodium content and ultra-processed nature are notable factors.
How to eat it
Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks are typically consumed as a standalone snack between meals or as a side with lunch. A common portion is about 15 chips (28g). Due to their savory flavor profile, they are often enjoyed on their own, but can also be paired with other foods.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair Sun Chips with a source of lean protein like a hard-boiled egg or a handful of nuts.
Consider combining a small portion of these chips with fresh vegetables such as carrot sticks or bell pepper slices to add vitamins and more fiber.
Be mindful of the serving size (about 15 chips) to manage sodium intake, as the sodium content is notable per 100g.
Use Sun Chips as a crunchy topping for salads or soups instead of eating them as a standalone snack to integrate them into a more balanced meal.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains wheat and milk ingredients, as declared by the manufacturer, making it unsuitable for individuals with allergies to these components. The presence of maltodextrin, derived from corn, may be a consideration for those with specific dietary sensitivities, although it is generally well-tolerated. The sodium content of 714.29mg per 100g is relatively high, which could be a concern for individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension. While the product contains natural flavors, the NOVA 4 classification indicates it is ultra-processed, which may be a consideration for consumers aiming to reduce their intake of highly processed foods.
Is Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks healthy?
Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks received a FoodScore of 51/100 (Decent). While it offers fiber and protein from its multigrain base, its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) and its sodium content are factors to consider. A balanced diet emphasizes a variety of 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 Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks offer more fiber and a slightly higher protein content due to their multigrain composition. However, both are considered ultra-processed snacks and contain notable amounts of sodium. Sun Chips' fiber content is a distinguishing factor.
What does 'multigrain' mean in this product?
In Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks, 'multigrain' refers to the use of several different grains, specifically whole corn, whole wheat, brown rice flour, and whole oat flour. This blend contributes to the product's fiber content. It indicates a variety of grain sources rather than just one.
What is a reasonable portion size for these chips?
The suggested serving size for Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks is about 15 chips (28g). Adhering to this portion size helps manage the intake of calories and sodium. For a balanced snack, consider pairing this portion with fresh produce or a lean protein source.
Are there any artificial colors in Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar?
The ingredient list for Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar Multigrain Snacks includes Paprika Extracts, which are used for color. This indicates that the product uses natural coloring agents rather than artificial colors. Consumers looking to avoid artificial colors may find this aspect favorable.