Comparing the Ingredients
At the heart of the debate between Skinny Pop and Lesser Evil is the quality of their core ingredients. While both market themselves as clean, mindful snacks, a closer look at the label reveals key differences that can sway your decision.
Skinny Pop Original
- Ingredients: Popcorn, sunflower oil, and salt.
- Sourcing: The popcorn is non-GMO, but not certified organic. The use of sunflower oil, a highly-processed polyunsaturated fat, is a primary point of contention for many clean-eating advocates. Concerns exist regarding seed oils and potential inflammatory effects when consumed frequently.
Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt
- Ingredients: Organic non-GMO popcorn, organic extra virgin coconut oil, and Himalayan salt.
- Sourcing: All ingredients are certified organic, meaning they are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. The use of coconut oil, a saturated fat, is generally considered a healthier alternative to industrial seed oils and is known for its stability at high heat.
Oil Quality: The Most Important Distinction
The oil used to pop the kernels is arguably the most significant health differentiator between the two brands. Lesser Evil's use of organic extra virgin coconut oil offers several potential advantages. Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily metabolized for energy. In contrast, sunflower oil is a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) commonly found in processed foods. While not inherently bad, critics suggest high consumption of these oils can lead to potential inflammatory responses in the body.
Flavor and Texture
Beyond the health aspects, taste is a crucial factor. Reviews on Lesser Evil often praise its light, fluffy texture and the subtle sweetness and unique flavor profile provided by the organic coconut oil. On the other hand, Skinny Pop is described by some as having a more standard, plain flavor, with comments about the kernels sometimes being on the softer side. The simple ingredients lend a classic, straightforward salted popcorn taste.
Nutritional Breakdown and Comparison
To provide a balanced view, here is a nutritional comparison based on publicly available data for one serving (typically 28g or 3 cups) of each brand's original/pink salt variety.
| Nutritional Aspect | Skinny Pop Original (per 28g/3 cups) | Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt (per 28g/3 cups) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 | ~120 |
| Total Fat | ~10g | ~6g |
| Saturated Fat | ~1g | ~5g |
| Sodium | ~130mg | ~190mg |
| Dietary Fiber | ~3g | ~4g |
| Protein | ~2g | ~2g |
| Sugar | 0g | 0g |
Note: Nutritional information can vary slightly by product version and package size. Always check the label.
Based on these figures, Lesser Evil typically has fewer calories and less total fat per serving. However, it contains significantly more saturated fat, primarily from the coconut oil. It also has a higher sodium content than some Skinny Pop varieties. Lesser Evil does offer slightly more fiber.
Which Popcorn is Healthier for You?
The determination of which is healthier largely depends on individual dietary priorities. Lesser Evil stands out for its commitment to organic, minimally processed ingredients, including the use of coconut oil rather than a seed oil. This may appeal more to those focused on "clean eating" or avoiding specific types of processed oils. However, the higher saturated fat content from the coconut oil is a consideration for some people.
Skinny Pop offers a lower saturated fat option and has fewer calories per serving. The simplicity of its ingredient list (popcorn, oil, salt) still makes it a better choice than many other conventional, heavily-flavored popcorns, even with the sunflower oil. For those who are calorie-counting or monitoring saturated fat intake, Skinny Pop might be a better fit.
Ultimately, both are a far healthier choice than microwave popcorn laden with artificial flavors, trans fats, and excessive additives. The best option depends on whether you prioritize certified organic ingredients and a more anti-inflammatory oil (Lesser Evil) or a lower saturated fat profile (Skinny Pop). Consider trying both to see which best aligns with your taste and dietary goals. As always, for the cleanest option, air-popping plain kernels at home and controlling the oil and salt yourself is the healthiest route.
Conclusion: Making the Right Snack Choice
In the final analysis, the choice between Skinny Pop and Lesser Evil boils down to ingredient philosophy. Lesser Evil prioritizes organic ingredients and minimally processed oils, which many find superior for overall health, despite a higher saturated fat count from the coconut oil. Skinny Pop remains a strong contender for those focusing on calorie and saturated fat control, offering a simple, satisfying snack with a conventional, non-GMO approach. Neither brand includes complex or artificial additives, setting them both well above many mainstream snack alternatives. By understanding the nutritional nuances and sourcing differences, you can confidently choose the popcorn that best fits your personal wellness objectives.
