Great Value Saltine Crackers: A Full Nutritional Breakdown
When you're counting calories, every bite counts. For a common pantry item like the Great Value saltine cracker, knowing the exact nutritional information for a standard serving size is essential. For the Original variety, a 5-cracker serving is the benchmark for calorie assessment.
Calorie Count: The Core Details
A standard serving of 5 Original Great Value saltine crackers contains 60 calories. This is a relatively low number, making them a popular choice for a light snack or for settling an upset stomach. The calories are broken down into the following macronutrients:
- Total Fat: 1.5 grams
- Total Carbohydrate: 11 grams
- Protein: 1 gram
This low-fat, low-protein, and high-carbohydrate ratio means the energy provided is largely from simple carbs. It is also important to note the sodium content, which can be surprisingly high for such a small snack. Five original crackers contain 135mg of sodium, which is 6% of the Daily Value.
A Look at Other Great Value Saltine Varieties
The calorie count can vary slightly depending on the specific type of Great Value saltine cracker. For example, the Unsalted Tops version has a different nutritional profile, containing 70 calories and 60mg of sodium per 5-cracker serving. The Whole Grain variety also differs slightly, with 60 calories and 130mg of sodium per 5 crackers, but includes 1 gram of fiber. Checking the specific box's nutrition label is always the most accurate way to confirm.
How Great Value Stacks Up: A Comparison Table
To put the calories of Great Value saltine crackers into perspective, here is a comparison with other popular crackers. All values are based on a 5-cracker serving.
| Cracker Type | Calories (per 5 crackers) | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Value Original | 60 | 1.5 | 11 | 135 |
| Great Value Unsalted Tops | 70 | 1.5 | 11 | 60 |
| Great Value Whole Grain | 60 | 2 | 11 | 130 |
| Generic Saltine Cracker | ~65 | ~1.7 | ~11 | ~140 |
Improving the Nutritional Value of Your Snack
Eating saltine crackers on their own is a simple and low-calorie choice, but they offer little in the way of fiber or protein, which are key to feeling full and satisfied. To make your snack more substantial and nutritious, consider pairing it with a protein or healthy fat. This helps to slow down digestion and provide more sustained energy.
Some healthy pairing ideas include:
- Nut butter: A thin spread of peanut, almond, or cashew butter adds healthy fats and protein.
- Hummus: A small dollop of hummus offers protein, fiber, and savory flavor.
- Cheese: A small slice of low-fat cheese provides protein and calcium.
- Avocado: A mashed avocado topping adds healthy fats and a creamy texture.
- Low-fat cottage cheese: This is a fantastic source of protein and pairs well with saltiness.
Health Considerations and Alternatives
While not the most nutrient-dense snack, saltine crackers are often recommended for settling an upset stomach due to their bland nature and dry texture. However, they are made from refined white flour and contain a notable amount of sodium, which is something to be mindful of, especially if you have high blood pressure. Excessive consumption of highly processed, high-sodium foods can be detrimental to long-term health. For everyday snacking, more nutritious alternatives are available.
Choosing healthier crackers involves looking for specific characteristics. As consumer reports and nutritionists often point out, looking for whole grain options is key. They recommend aiming for crackers with high fiber content, low sodium, and no added sugar.
- Look for whole grain as the first ingredient: This ensures more fiber and nutrients per serving.
- Check the fiber content: A good target is 2-3 grams of fiber per serving.
- Monitor sodium levels: Aim for 150mg of sodium or less per serving for a healthier choice.
- Choose crackers with healthy ingredients: Options made with nuts, seeds, or whole grains like quinoa or brown rice offer better nutritional value.
For a truly healthy snack, consider the advice from nutrition experts and choose wisely. You can find more comprehensive guidance on selecting nutritious options here: Are Saltine Crackers Healthy? A Dietitian's Take
Conclusion
In summary, 5 Great Value Original saltine crackers contain 60 calories and provide a quick source of carbohydrates with a kick of saltiness. While they can be useful for managing an upset stomach or as a very light, occasional snack, their low nutritional density and moderate sodium content mean they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. By pairing them with healthier toppings or choosing a more nutrient-dense whole grain cracker alternative, you can boost the overall health benefits of your snack time.
