WHEAT THINS LITTLE ITALY ROASTED GARLIC TOASTED CHIPS, LITTLE ITALY ROASTED GARLIC
WHEAT THINS LITTLE ITALY ROASTED GARLIC TOASTED CHIPS, LITTLE ITALY ROASTED GARLIC scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content.
This product received a FoodScore of 40/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It contains 7.1g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
A significant concern is the 892.86mg of sodium per 100g, which is high.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is ultra-processed, unlike air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables.
Consider portion control to manage sodium and added sugar intake.
Scores -1 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
7.5g
15% of Daily Value
Sodium
892.86mg
39% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (7.5g)-8
Saturated fat (3.6g)-1
Sodium (892.9mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 40
WHEAT THINS LITTLE ITALY ROASTED GARLIC TOASTED CHIPS, LITTLE ITALY ROASTED GARLIC received a FoodScore of 40 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The score is influenced by both positive and negative nutritional factors. On the positive side, the product provides 7.1g of fiber per 100g, earning a +9 bonus, and 7.1g of protein, contributing a +3 bonus. It also offers some micronutrients, specifically 11% DV for calcium and 21% DV for iron, adding +4 to its score. However, several factors significantly penalize the score. It contains 7.5g of added sugar per 100g, resulting in an -8 penalty, and 3.6g of saturated fat, incurring a -1 penalty. The most substantial deductions come from its high sodium content of 892.86mg per 100g, which leads to a -4 penalty, and its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, resulting in a -10 penalty. Additionally, the presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat further reduces the score by -3. Compared to a baseline of air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, this WHEAT THINS product contains significantly more sodium and added sugars.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in wheat thins little italy roasted garlic toasted chips, little italy roasted garlic actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This product contains 7.1g 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 the diet supports regular bowel movements and can be part of a balanced eating pattern. While this product offers fiber, it is also important to consume fiber from less processed sources like whole fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
Contribution of Whole Grains
The primary ingredient in WHEAT THINS is whole grain wheat flour, followed by whole grain rolled oats, whole grain barley flakes, whole grain rye, whole grain triticale, and whole grain millet. Consuming whole grains is associated with various health benefits, including supporting heart health and providing sustained energy. While this product includes multiple whole grains, its overall nutritional profile is affected by other ingredients.
Provides Iron and Calcium
This product contributes 21% DV for iron and 11% DV for calcium per 100g. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the body and energy production. Calcium is crucial for bone health and muscle function. While these micronutrients are present, they should ideally be obtained from a diverse range of nutrient-dense foods to meet daily requirements.
WHEAT THINS LITTLE ITALY ROASTED GARLIC TOASTED CHIPS, LITTLE ITALY ROASTED GARLIC scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content.
How to eat it
WHEAT THINS LITTLE ITALY ROASTED GARLIC TOASTED CHIPS are typically consumed as a snack, often alongside dips, cheeses, or as a crunchy accompaniment to meals. A common portion size is around 1 ounce, which is significantly less than the 100g reference amount. Being mindful of portion sizes is key to managing intake of sodium and added sugars.
Pair with fresh vegetables like cucumber slices or bell pepper strips to add more nutrients and fiber to your snack.
Use as a base for small amounts of lean protein like hummus or a thin slice of low-sodium turkey to enhance satiety.
Measure out a single serving to avoid overconsumption, especially given the sodium content of 892.86mg per 100g.
Consider alternating with less processed snack options such as plain air-popped popcorn or unsalted nuts to vary your intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that consumers may wish to note. It is classified as NOVA class 4 ultra-processed, indicating it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients like maltodextrin, dextrose, and various hydrolyzed proteins and flavor enhancers. The ingredient list includes soybean oil, which is a common allergen for some individuals. It also contains wheat, barley, rye, and triticale, which are sources of gluten and relevant for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The presence of disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate are flavor enhancers that some individuals prefer to limit. The high sodium content of 892.86mg per 100g should be considered by individuals monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management.
Is WHEAT THINS LITTLE ITALY ROASTED GARLIC TOASTED CHIPS healthy?
WHEAT THINS LITTLE ITALY ROASTED GARLIC TOASTED CHIPS received a FoodScore of 40/100, categorized as 'Poor.' While it provides some fiber and whole grains, its ultra-processed nature, high sodium, and added sugar content contribute to a lower score. It is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does WHEAT THINS compare to other snack crackers?
Compared to some other snack crackers, WHEAT THINS may offer more fiber due to its whole grain content. However, its sodium and added sugar levels are comparable to or higher than many other processed cracker options. For example, a plain cracker like a Triscuit might have a different sodium profile, but both are considered processed snacks.
What is the role of 'natural flavor' in this product?
The term 'natural flavor' on an ingredient list indicates a blend of substances derived from natural sources, used to enhance the taste of the product. While derived from nature, these flavors can be complex mixtures and are often part of the processing that classifies a food as ultra-processed. They contribute to the overall palatability.
What is a reasonable portion size for these chips?
The declared serving size is 1 ounce (28g). This portion contains significantly less sodium and added sugar than the 100g values. Adhering to the recommended serving size is important for managing your intake of these nutrients, especially given the product's overall nutritional profile.
Are WHEAT THINS LITTLE ITALY ROASTED GARLIC TOASTED CHIPS suitable for a low-sodium diet?
No, with 892.86mg of sodium per 100g, this product is not suitable for a low-sodium diet. Even a single serving contains a notable amount of sodium. Individuals on a sodium-restricted diet should choose snacks with significantly lower sodium content.