The Official Odeon Calorie Count for Small Salted Popcorn
When you settle in for a film at Odeon, the delicious scent of freshly popped popcorn is hard to resist. But for those watching their calorie intake, the nutritional information is crucial. Based on the most recently available data from Odeon (August 2025), the 'Regular Salt Popped' popcorn, which is equivalent to the small size, contains 272.43 calories per 56g serving. This figure provides a clear answer for anyone asking how many calories are in a small salted popcorn odeon.
Breaking Down the Regular Salt Popped Popcorn
The full nutritional profile of the 56g serving, according to Odeon's official documents, is as follows:
- Energy: 1133.17 kJ (272.43 kcal)
- Fat: 15.46 g
- Saturates: 4.26 g
- Carbohydrates: 28.95 g
- Sugars: 0.74 g
- Fibre: 5.71 g
- Protein: 4.32 g
- Salt: 1.05 g
It's important to note that these values can fluctuate slightly depending on the specific oil and popping method used. The values provided are the most accurate available from the cinema chain itself, giving customers a reliable baseline for their dietary considerations.
How Cinema Popcorn Differs from Homemade
Popcorn is a whole grain, and in its purest form—air-popped and unseasoned—it's a relatively healthy, high-fiber snack. However, the process of turning it into a cinema treat adds significant calories and sodium. Understanding these differences can help you make more informed choices.
Preparation Methods and Toppings
Unlike the air-popped version with just 31 calories per cup, cinema popcorn is typically popped in oil and then coated with large amounts of butter-flavored topping and salt. These additions drastically increase the fat and calorie count, which is evident in the nutritional figures. For example, a single cup of caramel corn can reach 120 calories, showcasing the huge impact of toppings.
Small Salted Popcorn: Odeon vs. Other Options
Here is a comparison of different popcorn options to put the Odeon small salted popcorn into perspective:
| Popcorn Type | Serving Size | Calories (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Odeon Small Salted | 56 g | ~272 kcal | Oiled, salted, typical cinema style. |
| Plain Air-Popped | 3 cups (approx. 24g) | 93 kcal | The healthiest, highest-fiber option. |
| Microwave Popcorn | 20g portion | ~158 kcal | Varies widely by brand; many contain high fat and salt. |
| Large Cinema Popcorn (Competitor) | 158g | ~795 kcal | Significantly higher in calories and salt. |
Understanding the Health Implications of Cinema Snacks
While a cinema trip can feel incomplete without popcorn, it's wise to consider the nutritional content within your overall dietary context. Popcorn's whole-grain nature is beneficial, providing fiber that aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness. However, the added salt and fat require moderation.
The High Sodium Warning
One of the most significant concerns with cinema popcorn is the sodium level. Some cinema popcorns can contain salt levels approaching the maximum daily recommended intake for an adult. High sodium intake is linked to elevated blood pressure, which can lead to heart disease and other health issues. The 1.05g of salt in the Odeon small is a notable portion of the 6g daily limit recommended by health organizations.
Tips for Healthier Movie Snacking
If you want to enjoy a movie snack without the high calorie and sodium load, consider these alternatives:
- Share a size: Split a small popcorn with a friend to halve your calorie intake.
- Bring your own: Pack some air-popped popcorn from home, lightly seasoned with herbs or a minimal dash of salt.
- Choose water: Avoid pairing your snack with sugary drinks, which add unnecessary calories.
- Opt for fruit: Many cinemas now offer healthier options like fruit pots or bags of nuts.
Conclusion
For those curious how many calories are in a small salted popcorn odeon, the answer is around 272 calories. While popcorn is a healthy whole grain, the cinema version's high fat and salt content makes it an indulgence rather than a healthy staple. By understanding the nutritional facts and considering healthier alternatives, you can still enjoy your movie experience while making a more mindful dietary choice. The official Odeon data provides the clarity needed to decide if the cinema classic fits your health goals on any given day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Odeon consider a 'small' salted popcorn?
At Odeon, the 'regular' size is considered the small option for salted popcorn, typically served in a 56g portion.
Is Odeon's small salted popcorn a healthy snack?
Due to the oil popping method and added salt, Odeon's salted popcorn is not considered a healthy snack. While popcorn itself is a whole grain, the cinema version has significantly higher calorie, fat, and sodium content.
How does the calorie count compare to the sweet popcorn at Odeon?
Odeon's August 2025 nutritional document lists a 'Regular Sweet Popped' (56g) at 277.44 calories, slightly more than the salted version.
What is the sugar content of the Odeon salted popcorn?
The Odeon Regular Salt Popped popcorn (56g) has a very low sugar content, at just 0.74g, as the flavour comes from salt, not sugar.
How does the salt content of Odeon popcorn compare to a daily recommendation?
With 1.05g of salt in a small serving, it constitutes a significant portion of an adult's recommended daily intake of 6g, highlighting the need for moderation.
Does a larger size offer better nutritional value?
No, larger sizes simply contain more of the same high-calorie, high-sodium product. The larger the popcorn, the higher the overall calorie and sodium count, making portion control key.
Can I find the official nutritional information for Odeon products online?
Yes, Odeon regularly updates and publishes its nutritional information in PDF format, accessible via its official website.
How does cinema popcorn make you feel full?
The fiber in popcorn promotes satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer. However, the high fat and salt can also lead to overconsumption if not eaten mindfully.
What is the fat content in a small Odeon salted popcorn?
The small Odeon salted popcorn contains 15.46g of fat, including 4.26g of saturated fat, which comes from the oil and butter-flavored topping used in preparation.
Are there healthier options at Odeon?
Odeon offers a range of snacks, and healthier alternatives like fruit or nuts might be available. It's best to check the counter for current options or bring a pre-packed, low-calorie snack.
