Lesser Evil vs. Skinny Pop: A Detailed Nutritional and Ingredient Breakdown
When navigating the snack aisle, brand names can be deceiving. While SkinnyPop's marketing suggests a diet-friendly option, a closer look at the ingredients and nutritional content reveals a more complex picture, especially when compared to a competitor like Lesser Evil. The key to determining which snack is healthier lies in examining their core ingredients, how they are processed, and the overall nutritional profile, not just the brand name.
The All-Important Ingredient List
One of the most significant differences between Lesser Evil and Skinny Pop is the type of oil used for popping. For most of its products, Skinny Pop uses sunflower oil. Sunflower oil is a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) that is more prone to oxidation when heated and is a source of inflammatory omega-6 fats. In contrast, Lesser Evil uses organic extra virgin coconut oil, a saturated fat that is more stable when heated and is considered by many health experts to be a healthier alternative for cooking. Lesser Evil also prides itself on using organic, non-GMO kernels, adding another layer of ingredient quality that Skinny Pop, while non-GMO, does not explicitly match with an organic certification for its kernels.
Ingredient Comparison
- Skinny Pop (Original): Popcorn, sunflower oil, salt.
- Lesser Evil (Himalayan Pink Salt): Organic non-GMO popcorn, organic extra virgin coconut oil, Himalayan salt.
Comparison Table: Lesser Evil vs. Skinny Pop (Original Flavors, Per 1 oz Serving)
| Nutritional Aspect | Lesser Evil | Skinny Pop | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 calories | ~140-150 calories | Skinny Pop can have slightly more calories per serving. |
| Total Fat | 6g | 9-10g | Lesser Evil typically has lower total fat content. |
| Saturated Fat | ~1.5-2g (from coconut oil) | ~1-1.5g (from sunflower oil) | Lesser Evil has more saturated fat, but from a healthier source (coconut oil). |
| Sodium | ~160-190mg | ~75-260mg (varies) | Sodium can vary significantly depending on the specific product and batch. |
| Fiber | 4g | 2g | Lesser Evil often contains more dietary fiber. |
| Ingredients | Organic, minimal, clean | Minimal, but includes seed oil | Lesser Evil prioritizes organic ingredients and a healthier oil. |
Note: Nutritional values can vary slightly by flavor and package size. These are based on standard 1oz serving comparisons.
Processing Methods and Quality Control
Beyond the ingredients themselves, how the popcorn is prepared is critical. Lesser Evil uses an air-popping method, which involves using hot air instead of oil to pop the kernels, resulting in a lighter, fluffier texture and lower fat and calorie count. The popcorn is then tumbled in oil and seasoned. This differs from a traditional stovetop or microwave approach. The brand also focuses on a minimally processed philosophy and is committed to sustainable sourcing.
While Skinny Pop does offer a high-quality product that is non-GMO and gluten-free, its reliance on sunflower oil raises some health concerns among certain nutritionists and health-conscious consumers. The "Skinny" name has been a point of contention, with some lawsuits alleging deceptive marketing regarding bag fullness, though not necessarily the healthfulness of the ingredients.
The Final Verdict: Which is Healthier?
Based on a detailed review of ingredients and processing, Lesser Evil is generally considered the healthier choice for a pre-packaged popcorn snack. The primary reasons include:
- Healthier Oil: Lesser Evil's use of organic extra virgin coconut oil is preferable to Skinny Pop's sunflower oil, especially for those concerned about inflammatory seed oils.
- Organic & Non-GMO: Lesser Evil uses USDA Organic, non-GMO kernels, offering a cleaner ingredient profile.
- Air-Popped Advantage: The air-popped process results in a lower calorie and fat snack overall.
However, it's important to remember that both are pre-packaged snacks. The absolute healthiest popcorn remains plain, air-popped kernels made at home, with no oil or minimal healthy oil like extra virgin olive oil, and limited seasoning. For convenience, Lesser Evil stands out for its cleaner ingredients, but conscious snacking should always prioritize whole, unprocessed foods. See Healthline's guide on popcorn nutrition for more information.
Conclusion
While both Lesser Evil and Skinny Pop offer non-GMO, gluten-free popcorn, Lesser Evil's commitment to using organic kernels and organic extra virgin coconut oil gives it a clear edge in the health department. Skinny Pop's use of sunflower oil, a seed oil high in inflammatory omega-6s, makes it a less desirable option for many health-focused consumers. Therefore, for a cleaner, minimally processed, and healthier packaged snack, Lesser Evil is the superior choice. Ultimately, the best snack is the one that fits your personal health philosophy and dietary needs, but an informed choice starts with a look beyond the marketing and directly at the ingredients list.
