Propercorn Sweet & Salty: A Detailed Nutritional Breakdown
For many, popcorn is a go-to snack, but its nutritional value varies greatly depending on how it's prepared. Propercorn has positioned itself as a healthier, more 'proper' option in the market. To truly understand how many calories are in Sweet and Salty Popcorn Propercorn, it's essential to look at the specific product data, which can differ slightly depending on the retailer and package size.
Calories Per Bag (30g serving)
The most common serving size for Propercorn Sweet & Salty is a 30g individual bag. Based on official nutritional data, a single 30g pack contains approximately 139 calories (kcal). This figure is often highlighted on the packaging, emphasizing the snack's relatively low-calorie profile compared to other indulgent treats. The calories are derived from its simple ingredient list: wholegrain corn, rapeseed oil, demerara sugar, and sea salt.
Nutritional Information Per 100g
For a broader comparison, looking at the nutritional values per 100g provides a clearer picture. A 100g portion of Propercorn Sweet & Salty contains approximately 465 kcal. This is useful for those who consume larger or smaller portions than the standard 30g bag. It's also a standard metric for comparing the product to other snacks on the market.
Macronutrient Breakdown
Propercorn Sweet & Salty offers more than just calories. The macronutrient distribution is also important for understanding its impact on your diet. Here's a typical breakdown per 100g based on product information:
- Fat: 20.4g (of which saturates 1.7g)
- Carbohydrate: 56.5g (of which sugars 11.3g)
- Fibre: 12.6g
- Protein: 7.6g
- Salt: 0.7g
It's worth noting that popcorn, as a whole grain, is naturally high in fibre. The added ingredients, such as rapeseed oil and demerara sugar, contribute to the fat and sugar content, giving it the signature sweet and salty flavour profile.
Is Propercorn a Healthy Snack?
While popcorn itself is a whole grain packed with fibre and antioxidants, the additions of sugar and oil in Propercorn's Sweet & Salty flavour mean it's not as 'saintly' as plain, air-popped popcorn. However, when enjoyed in moderation, it can still be a healthier alternative to many other snacks. As a vegan and gluten-free product, it accommodates various dietary needs. The key is moderation and being mindful of your total daily calorie and sugar intake. For a truly low-calorie option, air-popped popcorn with a little salt is the best choice.
Propercorn vs. Other Snacks: A Comparison
To put the calorie count into perspective, here's a comparison table of Propercorn Sweet & Salty against other common snack foods based on a typical serving size.
| Snack (Typical Serving) | Approximate Calories (kcal) | Key Nutritional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Propercorn Sweet & Salty (30g) | ~139 kcal | High in fibre, contains added sugar and oil. |
| Standard Bag of Crisps (25g) | ~130-150 kcal | Often higher in saturated fat and salt, lower in fibre. |
| Milk Chocolate Bar (45g) | ~230-250 kcal | Much higher in sugar and fat, lower in fibre. |
| Small Apple (150g) | ~78 kcal | Naturally low in calories, high in fibre and vitamins. |
| Plain Air-Popped Popcorn (30g) | ~110 kcal | Lowest in calories and fat, highest in natural fibre. |
This comparison shows that Propercorn holds its own as a relatively low-calorie snack, particularly when compared to crisps or chocolate. Its advantage lies in its high fibre content, which promotes a feeling of fullness.
Factors Affecting Popcorn Calories
The calorie count of any popcorn snack is highly dependent on a few key factors:
- Preparation Method: Air-popped popcorn is the lowest in calories, while oil-popped adds more fat and calories.
- Toppings and Seasonings: The addition of butter, sugar, and flavourings significantly increases the calorie and fat content.
- Serving Size: As demonstrated by the different Propercorn pack sizes (e.g., 14g vs 30g), the final calorie count is directly tied to the amount consumed.
Conclusion
In summary, a standard 30g bag of Sweet & Salty Propercorn contains around 139 calories, with a 100g portion having approximately 465 kcal. While not a zero-calorie health food, it is a whole grain snack high in fibre, making it a more satisfying and potentially healthier choice than many other packaged snacks, especially when consumed in moderation. The high fibre content and vegan-friendly ingredients are key selling points for health-conscious consumers, but it's important to remain aware of the added sugars and fats. Ultimately, understanding these nutritional facts empowers you to make an informed decision that aligns with your dietary goals. For the absolute healthiest option, plain, air-popped popcorn remains the clear winner.