If you're counting calories, 1 serving (17.7 g) of cheddar popcorn comes in at around 100 calories. But there's more to this classic snack than just the calorie count.
Cheddar popcorn is a tasty treat that can be enjoyed in moderation. It's important to know about its nutritional information, such as the carbohydrate and fat content, so you can make informed decisions about your snacking habits.
In this article, we'll dive into the nutritional facts, describe how you can benefit from including cheddar popcorn in your diet, and even show you how to make it from scratch!
Calories in Cheddar Popcorn
As we mentioned earlier, 1 serving (17.7 g) of cheddar popcorn contains around 100 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie snack option, especially compared to other snacks like chips or candy bars. It's important to keep portion sizes in mind, however. Eating an entire bag of cheddar popcorn can easily rack up your daily calorie intake.
Serving Size of Cheddar Popcorn
The serving size of cheddar popcorn is 1 ounce, or about 28 grams. This means that 1 serving (17.7 g) is just over half of a standard serving size. It can be helpful to measure out your snacks to ensure you're staying within your daily calorie and macronutrient goals.
Carbohydrates and Sugar in Cheddar Popcorn
1 serving (17.7 g) of cheddar popcorn contains around 13 grams of carbohydrates, with less than 1 gram of sugar. This makes it a moderate-carbohydrate snack option, but still low in sugar content. It's worth noting that certain brands of cheddar popcorn may contain added sugars, so be sure to check the nutrition label before purchasing.
Fat and Protein Content in Cheddar Popcorn
Cheddar popcorn contains around 6 grams of fat per serving (17.7 g), with less than 1 gram of protein. While it's important to keep an eye on your fat intake, some fats can be beneficial for your health. The fat in cheddar popcorn is primarily unsaturated, which is considered a healthier form of fat.
Cholesterol and Sodium Amount in Cheddar Popcorn
1 serving (17.7 g) of cheddar popcorn contains less than 1 milligram of cholesterol, making it a low-cholesterol snack option. However, cheddar popcorn can be high in sodium. 1 serving (17.7 g) contains around 75 milligrams of sodium, and eating a larger portion can easily lead to exceeding your daily recommended intake of sodium.
Vitamins and Minerals in Cheddar Popcorn
While cheddar popcorn isn't a significant source of vitamins or minerals, it does contain small amounts of calcium and iron. It's important to consume a varied diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support overall health.
Gluten-Free Cheddar Popcorn
For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, it's important to note that not all brands of cheddar popcorn are gluten-free. However, there are many gluten-free options available on the market, and it's worth checking the label or contacting the manufacturer to confirm if a particular brand is safe to consume.
Popcorn and Weight Loss
As a low-calorie, high-volume snack option, popcorn can be a useful tool for those looking to lose weight or maintain their current weight. By choosing a low-calorie popcorn variety like cheddar popcorn and consuming it in moderation, you can satisfy your snack cravings without sabotaging your progress.
Healthy Snack Option: Cheddar Popcorn
Overall, cheddar popcorn can be a healthy snack option when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. It's important to keep portion sizes in mind, as well as check the nutrition label for added sugars or excess sodium.
How to Make Cheddar Popcorn at Home
Making cheddar popcorn at home can be a fun and easy way to enjoy this snack while controlling the ingredients and portion sizes. To make cheddar popcorn, you'll need popcorn kernels, cheddar cheese powder, and butter (or a butter substitute). Simply pop the popcorn, melt the butter and mix in the cheddar cheese powder, then toss the popcorn in the mixture until it's evenly coated. Enjoy your homemade cheddar popcorn as a tasty and healthier alternative to store-bought options!
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheddar Popcorn
1. What is cheddar popcorn?
Cheddar popcorn is a type of popcorn that is flavored with cheddar cheese. It is a popular snack food that is often eaten while watching movies, sports, and other events.
2. How many calories are in cheddar popcorn?
One serving of cheddar popcorn (17.7g) contains 100 calories.
3. Is cheddar popcorn a healthy snack?
Cheddar popcorn, like most snack foods, should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is high in calories and sodium, which can contribute to health problems if consumed in excess.
4. Can cheddar popcorn be gluten-free?
Yes, cheddar popcorn can be made gluten-free by using ingredients that do not contain gluten or are processed in a dedicated gluten-free facility.
5. What are some alternatives to cheddar popcorn?
Some alternatives to cheddar popcorn include plain popcorn, air-popped popcorn, or popcorn flavored with other seasonings like garlic or parmesan cheese.