SUN CHIPS VEGGIE & WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS, TOMATO, BASIL & CHEESE scores 49/100 (Decent) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and moderate levels of added sugar and sodium, despite contributions from fiber and protein.
SUN CHIPS Tomato, Basil & Cheese earns a FoodScore of 49/100.
This product provides 7.1g of fiber and 10.7g of protein per 100g.
A primary concern is its NOVA class 4 designation, indicating it is ultra-processed.
It contains 7.1g of added sugar and 446.43mg of sodium per 100g.
Consider portion sizes to manage intake of added sugar and sodium.
Scores +16 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
7.11g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
10.71g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
7.1g
14% of Daily Value
Sodium
446.43mg
19% 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 (446.4mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 49
SUN CHIPS VEGGIE & WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS, TOMATO, BASIL & CHEESE achieves a FoodScore of 49 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product receives a significant bonus for its fiber content, providing 7.1 grams per 100g, which is a notable contribution for a snack food. It also gains points for its protein content, at 10.7 grams per 100g, and for iron, contributing 16% of the Daily Value. However, several factors reduce its overall score. The product is categorized as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs a 10-point penalty. It also contains 7.1 grams of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a penalty, and 446.43 mg of sodium, which also results in a minor deduction. The ingredient list includes dextrose and sugar early on, indicating the presence of sweeteners beyond what might be expected from the tomato and cheese flavors. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often has higher protein and calcium with less processing, SUN CHIPS offers fiber and whole grains but comes with more added sugar and processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sun chips veggie & whole grain snacks, tomato, basil & cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
SUN CHIPS Tomato, Basil & Cheese provides 7.1 grams of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet can support overall gut function. While this product is a source of fiber, it is still beneficial to consume fiber from a variety of whole food sources like fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
Contribution to Protein Intake
With 10.71 grams of protein per 100g, SUN CHIPS can contribute to daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and the production of enzymes and hormones. For individuals looking for a snack that offers some protein, this product can be an option, though it should be balanced with other protein sources throughout the day to meet overall requirements.
Source of Iron
This product provides 2.86 mg of iron per 100g, which is 16% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, the iron content in SUN CHIPS can help contribute to your daily intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet rich in other iron-containing foods.
SUN CHIPS VEGGIE & WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS, TOMATO, BASIL & CHEESE scores 49/100 (Decent) due to its ultra-processed nature and moderate levels of added sugar and sodium, despite contributions from fiber and protein.
How to eat it
SUN CHIPS are typically consumed as a snack, often on their own or alongside a sandwich. A common portion is 14 chips, which is about 28 grams. While convenient, it's easy to overconsume snack foods, so portion control is key.
Pair with a source of lean protein like a hard-boiled egg or a small serving of plain Greek yogurt to enhance satiety and balance the meal.
Measure out a single serving (14 chips) into a small bowl to help manage intake and avoid mindless eating directly from the bag.
Use SUN CHIPS as a crunchy topping for salads or soups to add texture without consuming a large quantity.
Consider these as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple due to their ultra-processed nature and added sugar content.
Things to keep in mind
This product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which means it contains ingredients typically not found in home kitchens, such as maltodextrin and various natural flavors. For individuals with specific dietary sensitivities, the presence of dairy ingredients like cheddar cheese, Romano cheese, and skim milk means it is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The sodium content, while not excessively high, should be considered for individuals monitoring their sodium intake, especially if consumed regularly. The ingredient list also includes sunflower and/or canola oil, which are common seed oils in processed snacks.
Is SUN CHIPS VEGGIE & WHOLE GRAIN SNACKS, TOMATO, BASIL & CHEESE healthy?
SUN CHIPS Tomato, Basil & Cheese scores 49/100, which is considered 'Decent' by FoodScore. While it offers some fiber and protein, it is also an ultra-processed food with added sugar and moderate sodium. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and with attention to portion sizes, but it is not a primary source of essential nutrients.
How does SUN CHIPS compare to other snack chips?
Compared to many conventional potato chips, SUN CHIPS often provide more whole grains and fiber, which can be a nutritional advantage. However, like many snack chips, they contain added sugars, sodium, and are ultra-processed. For instance, a brand like Lay's Classic Potato Chips might have less fiber but also less added sugar, while a brand like Triscuit Whole Grain Wheat Crackers would typically offer more fiber and less processing.
What does 'whole grain' mean in this product?
The 'whole grain' claim on SUN CHIPS is supported by ingredients like whole corn, whole wheat, and brown rice flour listed early in the ingredient list. This means the product contains the entire grain kernel – the bran, germ, and endosperm – which contributes to its fiber content. However, the presence of other processed ingredients means it's still an ultra-processed food.
What is a reasonable portion size for SUN CHIPS?
The declared serving size for SUN CHIPS is 14 chips, which is approximately 28 grams. Sticking to this portion size helps manage the intake of calories, added sugar, and sodium. Consuming larger portions regularly would increase the overall impact of these components on your diet.
Are the 'natural flavors' in SUN CHIPS a concern?
The term 'natural flavors' on an ingredient list, including in SUN CHIPS, refers to flavorings derived from natural sources, but they can still undergo significant processing. While generally recognized as safe, they contribute to the product's ultra-processed classification. For those seeking to minimize processed ingredients, foods with simpler ingredient lists are preferable.