FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentsnackSUN CHIPS· 14 CHIPS | ABOUT

SUN CHIPS VEGGIE & WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS, SPRING HERB & PARMESAN

SUN CHIPS VEGGIE & WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS, SPRING HERB & PARMESAN scores 48/100 (Decent) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and moderate levels of added sugar and sodium, despite contributions from fiber and protein.

  • SUN CHIPS VEGGIE & WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS scores 48/100, placing it in the Decent category.
  • This product contains 7.1g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
  • A significant concern is its NOVA class 4 designation, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, this snack provides less nutritional density.
  • Portion control is important, as 100g contains 500 calories and 500mg of sodium.
  • Scores +7 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
7.11g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
10.71g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
7.1g
14% of Daily Value
Sodium
500mg
22% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Protein (10.7g)+6
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (7.1g)-7
Sodium (500mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 48

SUN CHIPS VEGGIE & WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS, SPRING HERB & PARMESAN achieves a FoodScore of 48 out of 100, categorized as Decent. The score benefits from its fiber content, providing 7.1g per 100g, and protein at 10.7g per 100g. These nutrients contribute positively to satiety and overall diet quality. However, several factors reduce the score. The product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. It also contains 7.1g of added sugar per 100g, contributing a -7 point penalty, and 500mg of sodium per 100g, leading to a -2 point penalty. The presence of ingredients like maltodextrin and sugar contributes to the added sugar content. While the product highlights 'whole grain,' the overall formulation includes multiple processed components. In comparison to a baseline of air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, SUN CHIPS offers less micronutrient diversity and a higher degree of processing.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in sun chips veggie & whole grain snacks, spring herb & parmesan actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Dietary Fiber

This product provides 7.1g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is known to support digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in appetite regulation. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet is a key recommendation for overall well-being. The fiber in SUN CHIPS comes from ingredients like whole corn, whole wheat, and brown rice flour.

Contains Protein

With 10.71g of protein per 100g, SUN CHIPS VEGGIE & WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS offers a moderate amount of this macronutrient. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and it also plays a role in satiety, helping to keep you feeling full between meals. While not a primary protein source, it can contribute to your daily protein goals, especially when combined with other protein-rich foods.

Provides Iron

This snack contributes 3.57mg of iron per 100g, which is 20% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport throughout the body and plays a role in energy production. Adequate iron intake is important for preventing iron deficiency. While not a significant source of other micronutrients, the iron content is a notable contribution.

How to eat it

SUN CHIPS are typically consumed as a standalone snack between meals or as a side with a sandwich. A common portion size is around 14 chips, which is less than 100g. Be mindful of the sodium and added sugar content when incorporating this into your regular diet.

Pair with a source of lean protein like a hard-boiled egg or a handful of nuts to enhance satiety and balance the snack.
Combine with fresh vegetables such as carrot sticks or bell pepper slices to add vitamins and minerals and increase overall nutrient density.
Measure out a single serving (14 chips) to help manage calorie and sodium intake, rather than eating directly from the bag.
Consider using these chips as a crunchy topping for salads or soups in small quantities to add texture without overconsuming.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals with dairy allergies or sensitivities should note that this product contains milk, whey, buttermilk, cream, and various cheeses. The ingredient list also includes whole wheat, making it unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. The presence of 500mg of sodium per 100g means that individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should consume this product in moderation. The added sugar content (7.1g per 100g) should also be considered by individuals managing blood sugar levels. As an ultra-processed food, it contains several ingredients commonly found in such products, including maltodextrin and natural flavor.

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Reader questions
Is SUN CHIPS VEGGIE & WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS healthy?
SUN CHIPS VEGGIE & WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS scores 48/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it offers some fiber and protein, it is also an ultra-processed food with moderate levels of added sugar and sodium. Its nutritional profile is not as robust as whole, unprocessed foods.
How does SUN CHIPS compare to other snack chips?
Compared to some other snack chips like Lay's Classic Potato Chips, SUN CHIPS offers more fiber and protein due to its whole grain ingredients. However, it still falls into the ultra-processed category and has similar sodium levels to many conventional chips. For a less processed option, consider plain tortilla chips made with minimal ingredients.
What does 'natural flavor' mean in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural flavor' refers to a substance derived from a spice, fruit or vegetable juice, edible yeast, herb, bark, bud, root, leaf or similar plant material, meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, dairy products, or fermentation products thereof, whose significant function in food is flavoring rather than nutritional. It can be a complex mixture of ingredients.
What is a reasonable portion size for SUN CHIPS?
A standard serving size is 14 chips, which is approximately 28g. This portion contains about 140 calories, 2g of fiber, 3g of protein, 2g of added sugar, and 140mg of sodium. Sticking to this portion can help manage your intake of calories, sodium, and added sugar.
Can I eat SUN CHIPS every day?
While SUN CHIPS can be part of an occasional snack, daily consumption should be considered within the context of your overall diet. Due to its ultra-processed nature, moderate added sugar, and sodium content, prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods for daily intake is generally recommended for optimal health.

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