Ingredient Quality: A Closer Look at What's Inside
The primary difference between SkinnyPop and Lesser Evil lies in the quality and source of their ingredients. While both brands emphasize their products are non-GMO, the specific ingredients used for popping and flavoring tell a more complete story about their health profile.
SkinnyPop's Minimalist Approach
SkinnyPop Original is known for its simple ingredient list: popcorn, sunflower oil, and salt. While minimalism can be a good thing, the use of sunflower oil is a point of concern for some health experts. Sunflower oil is a polyunsaturated fatty acid that, when exposed to high heat during processing, can become unstable and potentially inflammatory. Although SkinnyPop is generally regarded as a better alternative to deeply processed snacks, this ingredient choice places it a step below options made with more stable fats.
Lesser Evil's Mindful Ingredients
Lesser Evil takes a different approach, often using higher-quality, organic ingredients. For example, Lesser Evil's popcorn and Paleo Puffs often use organic extra virgin coconut oil or avocado oil, which are considered more stable and less inflammatory when processed with heat compared to seed oils. The brand's commitment to organic sourcing and clean ingredients, even in their flavored varieties like Paleo Puffs made from cassava and sweet potato, appeals to those following cleaner eating protocols.
Nutritional Breakdown: Popcorn vs. Paleo Puffs
Comparing the nutrition of a standard SkinnyPop Original popcorn to Lesser Evil's Paleo Puffs highlights differences in fat, carbohydrates, and fiber. While Lesser Evil also makes popcorn, the Paleo Puffs represent their key alternative to standard corn-based snacks.
Comparison of Core Snacks (per 28g serving)
| Feature | SkinnyPop Original Popcorn | Lesser Evil "No Cheese" Cheesiness Paleo Puffs |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 kcal | ~130 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10g | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | 19g |
| Dietary Fiber | Not specified, but popcorn is a whole grain source | 1g |
| Sodium | ~75-130mg (varies) | 190mg |
| Protein | 2g | 0g |
| Primary Oil | Sunflower oil | Coconut oil |
Understanding the Data
The nutritional data reveals that SkinnyPop is lower in saturated fat and sodium for a similar-sized serving. However, it's also higher in total fat, mainly from the sunflower oil. Lesser Evil's Paleo Puffs have a lower calorie count and less total fat, but significantly higher saturated fat due to the coconut oil content. The source of the carbs is another major distinction: SkinnyPop comes from whole-grain corn, while the Paleo Puffs use cassava, a grain-free, resistant starch source.
Processing and Certifications
Both brands take pride in their processing, but they target different consumer needs. Understanding their methods can reveal further differences in overall health value.
How SkinnyPop is Made
SkinnyPop is air-popped and then tumbled in sunflower oil and salt. The brand emphasizes its use of simple, straightforward ingredients and avoids artificial additives, preservatives, and GMOs. This minimal processing is appealing, but the type of oil used is a drawback for some.
Lesser Evil's Production
Lesser Evil manufactures its snacks in-house at its Connecticut facility, allowing for tight control over the entire process. Their commitment to clean ingredients means they use high-quality oils and organic seasonings, catering to those who prioritize organic, sustainable, and minimally processed foods. Their products are also certified USDA Organic, a standard that SkinnyPop lacks for its corn source.
Conclusion: Which is the Healthier Snack?
When it comes down to which snack is healthier, the answer depends on individual dietary priorities. Lesser Evil's use of organic, high-quality oils like coconut or avocado oil and its sourcing of USDA Organic ingredients positions it as the "lesser evil"—and likely the healthier choice—for most health-conscious consumers. The higher saturated fat in the Paleo Puffs (from coconut oil) is something to monitor, but the clean, organic sourcing and better oil profile overall give it an edge.
SkinnyPop remains a decent option, especially when compared to heavily processed chips or other snack foods. However, the use of conventional corn and potentially inflammatory sunflower oil makes it a less ideal choice for those focused on clean eating. Ultimately, for a snack with fewer questionable ingredients and stronger health credentials, Lesser Evil wins out.
For a Better Snacking Decision:
- Prioritize Ingredient Quality: If using non-inflammatory, high-quality oils is important to you, Lesser Evil is the clear winner.
- Consider Dietary Needs: Those following a paleo or grain-free diet will prefer Lesser Evil's Paleo Puffs, which use cassava flour instead of corn.
- Evaluate Processing: Both are minimally processed, but Lesser Evil's USDA Organic certification and in-house manufacturing process offer greater control over quality.
- Analyze Nutrition Facts: While Lesser Evil's Paleo Puffs have more saturated fat, SkinnyPop has more total fat per serving. Both have relatively low sodium levels compared to other snacks, but check specific flavors.
Making the healthier choice means looking beyond a snack's name and into its ingredients and processing. Lesser Evil offers a cleaner label and better oil source, making it the superior option for mindful snacking.
Final Recommendations
For most people seeking a truly cleaner and healthier snack, Lesser Evil is the better option. Its organic ingredients, high-quality oils, and broader appeal to specific dietary needs like grain-free or vegan make it a more thoughtful choice. While SkinnyPop is not a bad snack, the reliance on sunflower oil and lack of organic certification places it a level below its competitor for those prioritizing optimal health.
