The KFC Original Supercharged Slider is a popular snack item, particularly on the Australian menu, known for its small size and kick of spicy flavour. For those tracking their daily energy intake, understanding the specific nutritional details is essential. While it is a smaller item compared to a full burger, its caloric and macronutrient composition should be taken into account when fitting it into a diet plan.
The Nutritional Profile of a KFC Supercharged Slider
Based on official nutritional data, a single Original Supercharged Slider has the following breakdown:
- Energy: 1081-1082 kJ or 259 kcal
- Protein: 12.1g
- Total Fat: 12.1g
- Saturated Fat: 1.6g
- Carbohydrates: 24.6g
- Sugars: 3.1g
- Sodium: Approximately 507mg (based on a similar product noted on CalorieKing)
It's worth noting that this composition can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and preparation at different restaurant locations. The main components are typically a piece of chicken tender, supercharged sauce, and a bun. The sauce and bun contribute to the carbohydrate and fat content, while the chicken is the primary source of protein.
Breaking Down the Macros
The energy distribution of the Supercharged Slider is a mix of all three macronutrients. The total fat is slightly higher than the protein, with a significant contribution from carbohydrates. A quick analysis of the calorie breakdown shows that it gets roughly 44% of its calories from fat, 38% from carbs, and 19% from protein. This means it is a moderately balanced snack in terms of macronutrients, but the fat percentage is quite high for its size.
How the Supercharged Slider Compares to Other KFC Items
To put the Supercharged Slider's nutritional content into perspective, a comparison with other small items on the menu can be helpful. This table shows how its calorie count stacks up against other popular choices.
| Item | Calories | Protein (g) | Total Fat (g) | Carbohydrates (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original Supercharged Slider | ~259 | 12.1 | 12.1 | 24.6 |
| Original BBQ Slider | ~242 | 12.2 | 8.9 | 27.6 |
| Original Pepper Mayo Slider | ~269 | 12.1 | 13.6 | 23.9 |
| Kids Meal with BBQ Slider | ~335 | 13.3 | 12.3 | 41.7 |
| Snack Popcorn Chicken | ~241 | ~14 | ~13 | ~18 |
As the table shows, the Supercharged Slider sits in a similar calorie range to the other sliders. The BBQ Slider is slightly lower in calories due to its lower fat content, while the Pepper Mayo Slider is slightly higher. For a comparable calorie count, Snack Popcorn Chicken offers a similar caloric intake but a different macronutrient ratio.
What's in a Supercharged Slider?
To truly understand the nutrition, one must look at the ingredients. The standard Supercharged Slider is composed of:
- A single Original Tender: A smaller, breaded piece of chicken. The breading is the primary contributor of saturated fat and refined carbohydrates.
- Supercharged Sauce: This is the key ingredient that provides the signature spicy flavour. It contains fats, sugars, and flavourings.
- Lettuce: A minimal addition for texture and a small amount of fibre.
- A slider bun: A soft, white bread bun that contributes a significant portion of the carbohydrates.
This simple construction explains the nutritional profile quite well. The combination of fried chicken, a creamy sauce, and a white bun results in a snack that is not low in fat or carbs.
Is the Supercharged Slider a Healthy Choice?
The term 'healthy' is subjective and depends on an individual's dietary goals. As a standalone snack, the Supercharged Slider is relatively modest in calories compared to larger menu items. However, its high fat and sodium content mean it should be consumed in moderation, especially for those with health concerns related to those areas. It is not a low-calorie or low-fat item, but it can be enjoyed as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet. If paired with a large soft drink and fries, the total caloric load for the meal would increase significantly, moving it further away from a 'healthy' option. For better choices, consider options like unbreaded chicken or adding a side salad.
The Calorie Burn: What it Takes to Work it Off
For those interested in balancing their caloric intake with exercise, understanding the energy expenditure required to burn off a Supercharged Slider can be motivating. Based on nutritional tracking data, it would take approximately:
- Walking: 1 hour and 53 minutes
- Jogging/Bicycling: 32 minutes
- Swimming: 45 minutes
These figures are based on estimates and vary depending on individual factors such as weight, age, gender, and workout intensity. They do, however, provide a useful reference for the energy required to offset the snack.
Conclusion
In summary, a single KFC Supercharged Slider contains approximately 259 calories and delivers a mix of fat, carbohydrates, and protein. While not the most calorically dense item on the menu, it is a snack that should be factored into a daily diet, especially for those monitoring their intake of fats and sodium. By understanding its nutritional makeup and how it compares to other options, consumers can make more informed choices. The key to enjoying fast food responsibly is moderation and nutritional awareness. For more detailed information on KFC's nutritional guide for Australian customers, you can visit their official website.
