Snacks, popcorn, caramel-coated, with peanuts
Category: Snacks
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
113
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 92 (80.9%) |
| Fat | 20 (17.6%) |
| Protein | 7.3 (6.4%) |
| Total | 113 (100%) |
Serving: 1 oz (approx 2/3 cup) [28g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 23 (80.7%) |
| Fat | 2.2 (7.8%) |
| Protein | 1.8 (6.4%) |
| Water | 0.9 (3.3%) |
| Ash | 0.5 (1.8%) |
| Total | 28 (100%) |
Serving: 1 oz (approx 2/3 cup) [28g]
Benefits
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Provides fiber from the popcorn and peanuts which aids digestion
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The peanuts provide plant-based protein and healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids
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The caramel coating provides a source of calories and carbohydrates to be used as energy
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Popcorn is a whole grain which provides minerals like magnesium and phosphorus
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Peanuts contain resveratrol and other antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation
Risks
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High in calories and fat due to the caramel and peanuts coating. One serving can contain over 300 calories
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High in sodium. A single serving contains over 200mg of sodium which is almost 10% of the recommended daily limit
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Risk of choking on peanuts for young children and elderly. Peanuts need to be chewed properly before swallowing
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May cause blood sugar spikes due to the high glycemic index of popcorn and caramel sugar content
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Frequent consumption can contribute to weight gain if not accounted for in the daily calorie needs
Additional Information
Snacks, popcorn, caramel-coated, with peanuts, can be a delicious treat enjoyed by many. However, it is essential to understand the nutritional benefits and risks associated with consuming this particular food product.
Starting with the primary attribute, popcorn is a whole grain that offers several nutritional benefits. It is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system. Additionally, whole grains like popcorn have been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Popcorn also contains antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which help protect the body against harmful free radicals.
Moving on to the secondary attributes, caramel coating adds sweetness and flavor to the popcorn. However, it also introduces additional calories and sugar. Caramel is typically made by heating sugar and butter, which increases the calorie content of the snack. Excessive consumption of added sugars can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Therefore, it is important to consume caramel-coated popcorn in moderation to avoid excessive sugar intake.
The inclusion of peanuts in caramel-coated popcorn offers both nutritional benefits and risks. Peanuts are a good source of plant-based protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals. They contain monounsaturated fats, which are known to promote heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels. Peanuts also provide essential nutrients like vitamin E, folate, magnesium, and potassium. However, it is important to note that peanuts are high in calories, so portion control is crucial to avoid excessive calorie intake.
While caramel-coated popcorn with peanuts can be enjoyed as an occasional treat, it is essential to be mindful of portion sizes and frequency of consumption. Here are some tips to make this snack a healthier choice:
1. Opt for homemade versions: Making your own caramel-coated popcorn allows you to control the amount of sugar and butter used, making it a healthier option.
2. Choose air-popped popcorn: Air-popped popcorn contains fewer calories and less fat than oil-popped versions. This can help reduce the overall calorie content of the snack.
3. Use natural sweeteners: Instead of using refined sugars, consider using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in moderation to reduce the amount of added sugars.
4. Add variety: Experiment with other nutritious additions like dried fruits, dark chocolate, or seeds to enhance the flavor and nutritional profile of the snack.
In conclusion, snacks like caramel-coated popcorn with peanuts can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Popcorn provides dietary fiber and antioxidants, while peanuts offer protein and healthy fats. However, the caramel coating introduces additional calories and sugar, so portion control is crucial. By making homemade versions and incorporating healthier ingredients, you can enjoy this snack while minimizing potential risks and maximizing its nutritional benefits.