Understanding the Nutritional Profile
When considering the nutritional value of Triscuits Rosemary and Olive Oil, it's important to look beyond just the calorie count. While the 120 calories per six-cracker serving is a useful metric, a more comprehensive view includes the breakdown of macronutrients and other key nutritional information. This detailed analysis helps consumers make informed choices about their snack consumption, especially for those monitoring specific dietary components like sodium or fiber.
Macronutrient Breakdown
The 120 calories in Triscuits Rosemary and Olive Oil are derived from a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fat, and protein.
- Carbohydrates: A serving provides 20 grams of total carbohydrates. This includes 3 grams of dietary fiber, which is a significant component given the small serving size. The fiber comes from the 100% whole grain wheat used to make the crackers, contributing to feelings of fullness and aiding digestive health. There is also less than 1 gram of total sugars and less than 1 gram of added sugars per serving.
- Fats: The total fat content is 4 grams per serving. Notably, the crackers contain 0 grams of saturated fat and 0 grams of trans fat. The olive oil, while contributing to the overall fat content, is a source of monounsaturated fatty acids, which are considered a healthier type of fat.
- Protein: Each serving contains 3 grams of protein. While not a primary protein source, this amount adds to the overall nutritional substance of the snack.
Other Key Nutrients
Beyond the macronutrients, several other nutritional components are worth noting for Triscuits Rosemary and Olive Oil:
- Sodium: A serving contains 130 mg of sodium, which is about 6% of the daily value. This is a moderate amount for a savory cracker and can be a factor for those managing their sodium intake.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The crackers provide a small amount of several minerals, including 1.4 mg of iron (8% DV) and 110 mg of potassium (2% DV) per serving. They do not contain any cholesterol.
Ingredient Quality
Triscuits Rosemary and Olive Oil are baked with 100% whole grain wheat and contain natural flavors. They are also Non-GMO Project verified, appealing to consumers who prioritize avoiding genetically modified ingredients.
Triscuit Flavor Comparison: Rosemary & Olive Oil vs. Other Varieties
To put the nutritional content of the Rosemary & Olive Oil flavor into perspective, here is a comparison with other popular Triscuit varieties based on a standard six-cracker serving:
| Flavor | Calories (per 6 crackers) | Total Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) | Fiber (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rosemary & Olive Oil | 120 | 4 | 130 | 3 |
| Original | 120 | 3.5 | 170 | 3 |
| Hint of Salt | 120 | 3.5 | 50 | 3 |
| Reduced Fat | 110 | 3 | 150 | 4 |
As the table shows, the Rosemary & Olive Oil flavor has a slightly higher fat content than the Original and Hint of Salt versions due to the inclusion of olive oil. However, its sodium level is lower than the Original variety and significantly higher than the Hint of Salt option. The calorie count remains consistent at 120 per serving for most standard flavors, while the Reduced Fat version offers a slightly lower-calorie option.
How to Incorporate Triscuits into a Healthy Diet
Despite their relatively modest calorie count, the key to enjoying Triscuits in a healthy way lies in moderation and portion control. Since it can be easy to eat more than the recommended six-cracker serving, it's beneficial to pair them with nutrient-dense toppings or dips.
Pairing Suggestions
- Dips: Serve with homemade hummus, guacamole, or a spinach and artichoke dip for added protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
- Cheese: Pair with a small amount of fresh mozzarella, feta, or a sharp cheddar for a savory snack. Sporked recommends pairing the Cracked Pepper and Olive Oil flavor with Italian cheeses, and this advice applies well to the Rosemary & Olive Oil variety too.
- Toppings: Top with sliced cucumbers and tomato, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or a spoonful of bruschetta.
- Soups and Salads: Crush Triscuits and use them as a crunchy topping for soups and salads as an alternative to croutons.
Conclusion
In summary, a serving of six Triscuits Rosemary and Olive Oil crackers contains 120 calories, providing a tasty, crunchy snack that is relatively low in sugar and a good source of whole grain fiber. While the calorie count is consistent with many other Triscuit flavors, this variety has a distinctive savory profile due to the rosemary and olive oil. By paying attention to the standard serving size and pairing them with healthy toppings, these crackers can be a satisfying part of a balanced diet. Individuals watching their sodium intake may prefer the "Hint of Salt" version, but the Rosemary and Olive Oil option remains a flavorful choice for most snackers. For detailed nutritional information directly from the manufacturer, consider checking the SmartLabel website.
