Pom Bears have been a beloved, light, and crispy snack in the UK for decades, instantly recognizable by their fun bear shape and delicate flavour. Marketed often as a lower-calorie snack option, especially within multi-packs, they are a common feature in lunchboxes. However, many people wonder about the exact nutritional details, including how many calories are in one pack of Pom Bears, and whether they are a truly healthy choice. Understanding the calorie content and overall nutritional profile can help you make an informed decision when choosing a snack.
Calorie Breakdown by Flavor
The calorie count in Pom Bears is remarkably consistent across their most common multipack flavors, with the standard bag size being 13g. Here is a quick breakdown:
- Original/Ready Salted: A 13g multipack bag of Original Pom Bears contains 66 kcal. This is one of the most frequently cited calorie counts for the product, reflecting its status as a consistently low-calorie snack. The slightly puffed texture is achieved by using dried potato and potato starch, which contributes to the lower calorie density compared to thicker, oil-fried potato crisps.
- Cheese & Onion: The Cheese & Onion flavour is similarly light, with a 13g bag containing 64 kcal. The small difference in calories is due to the specific flavouring ingredients used, which add minimal caloric value.
- Salt & Vinegar: For those who enjoy a tangy twist, the Salt & Vinegar flavor also comes in at a low 65 kcal per 13g bag. Like the other flavors, the main source of energy comes from the potato starch and sunflower oil used in the manufacturing process.
- BBQ: The BBQ flavour provides a smoky taste and, at 65 kcal per 13g pack, is another low-calorie option in the Pom Bears range.
For larger, single-serve bags, the calorie count will be higher. For example, a 19g bag of Original Pom Bears contains approximately 96-97 calories. It's crucial to always check the pack size when considering the calorie count.
Full Nutritional Information Table
For a more comprehensive look, here is a comparison of the typical nutritional values for a standard 13g multipack bag of Pom Bears across different flavors:
| Nutrient | Original (13g) | Cheese & Onion (13g) | Salt & Vinegar (13g) | BBQ (13g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories (kcal) | 66 | 64 | 65 | 65 |
| Energy (kJ) | 274 | 269 | 272 | 271 |
| Fat (g) | 3.4 | 3.3 | 3.3 | 3.3 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 0.3 | 0.4 | 0.4 | 0.3 |
| Carbohydrate (g) | 7.9 | 8.1 | 8.2 | 7.9 |
| of which Sugars (g) | <0.5 | <0.5 | <0.5 | <0.5 |
| Fibre (g) | 0.7 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.7 |
| Protein (g) | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.3 | 0.5 |
| Salt (g) | 0.17 | 0.18 | 0.2 | 0.02 |
Are Pom Bears a Healthy Snack?
While Pom Bears are often perceived as a healthier snack due to their lower calorie count, it's important to consider their overall nutritional profile. A nutritionist quoted by SLMan points out that although a bag has only 65 calories, they are 'empty calories', providing little nutritional value.
Key nutritional considerations:
- Processed Ingredients: Pom Bears are not made from whole, sliced potatoes like traditional crisps. Instead, they are made from dried potato and potato starch, along with sunflower oil and various flavourings. This makes them a processed snack rather than a whole food.
- High Fat and Salt (Relative to Serving): The table shows that a small 13g serving has a relatively high fat and salt content for its size, which are factors to consider, especially for those monitoring their intake of these components.
- Allergen and Dietary Information: On the plus side, Pom Bears are gluten-free, with no artificial colours or flavours, and are suitable for both vegetarians and vegans across several flavours. This makes them a more inclusive option than many other crisps.
The Verdict: How Pom Bears Fit into Your Diet
Ultimately, Pom Bears can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Their low calorie count per bag makes them a suitable alternative for someone wanting a light, crunchy treat without consuming excess calories. They can be a mindful indulgence rather than a staple healthy food. As with any snack, the key is portion control and balance, especially if you are watching your fat or salt intake.
For a truly healthy snack, options like fresh fruit, nuts, or homemade popcorn provide more fibre and nutrients without the processed ingredients. However, for a convenient and enjoyable packaged snack, Pom Bears offer a satisfying, lower-calorie option compared to many other crisps on the market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a standard 13g multipack bag of Pom Bears contains between 64 and 66 calories, depending on the flavour. The Original flavour specifically contains 66 kcal. While their calorie count is low, they are still a processed snack and should be enjoyed in moderation. They are gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making them accessible to a wider audience. For those seeking a specific nutritional breakdown, always check the packaging for the most accurate information. When eaten as an occasional treat, Pom Bears can easily fit into a balanced and mindful eating plan.
Visit KP Snacks for more nutritional details on their products
